CHAPEL HILL – John Ray Holt, 89, of Chapel Hill N.C. died peacefully on July 3rd, 2018 after a prolonged struggle with heart and kidney failure. He was born and raised in Old Fort, N.C. and was the son of the late John Bratcher Holt and Lavada Sutton Holt. Holt.
John was a graduate of North Carolina State University and was a sub-contractor for NASA as an electrical engineer on the Apollo project. He built his first house himself and he and his wife greatly enjoyed many years of flying his Cessna airplane. John also understood that puns are the most intelligent form of comedy.
John is survived by his loving wife of 61 years Nancy Yvonne Wilson Holt and his son David Holt. He was preceded in death by his daughter Diane Holt.
A graveside service will be held 10:00am on Saturday July 7th, 2018 at Woodlawn Memorial Park in Durham with Dr. Marcus McFaul officiating.
The Holt family is under the care of Hall-Wynne Funeral Service. Online condolences: www.hallwynne.com; select obituaries.
Darcus H. Adams Jr & Linda Adams
July 5, 2018 at 7:27 pmWe are so sorry for your loss of a dear family member. If there is anything that we can do during this time, please give us a call. The family is in our prayers as always. Love you.
Elsie Brookshire
July 5, 2018 at 10:33 pmYvonne and David: I am so sorry about the loss of John. My heart goes out to you both as you must try to adjust to life without him. John was special in so many ways and as I got to know him a little better in our later years I realized just how remarkable he was. I wish we could have lived close enough in our younger years to have a closer relationship with you both. I looked forward to his e-mails because when they arrived I knew I was in for a special treat, usually invoking laughter and fun. I had hoped he would be able to return to his old witty self and his e-mails would be coming again. I am going to miss him a lot, but I know it will be harder for you and will keep you both in my prayers. Our large family is dwindling down and each one is a great loss. We should express our love while we can. I hope we will be able to stay in touch even across the miles. Elsie (First cousin)
Elsie Brooshire
July 7, 2018 at 9:29 amYvonne and David: I know this will be a hard day for you both. John’s service will be starting in a matter of minutes and I want you to know that although I cant be there I am with you in mind and spirit and prayer. You will be in my thoughts all day and I hope it helps a little bit to know that family and friends here are thinking of you. I’m praying He will give you peace of mind, heart and spirit, and the certain hope that you will see him again. With love, Elsie
Cynthia Keech
July 7, 2018 at 9:31 amWe are sorry for your loss. He was a good man whose contributions will be remembered.