Gary L. Holt

Gary was born on November 7, 1960 in St. Paul, MInnesota. Gary is preceded in death by his parents, Franklin and Jessileana (Keene) Holt; younger brother, Randall Holt, and his niece, Brittany Holt. He is survived by his wife: Karen Elizabeth (Russell) Holt; children: Katelyn “Kade” Elizabeth Holt (Richard Lackey), Sarah Elizabeth (Holt) Corder (Eli Corder), Gary Alexander “Alex” Holt (Elizabeth Baker): grandchild, Charlotte “Lottie” Grace Corder; brothers: David (Kathi) Holt and Jeffrey (Sarah) Holt; sisters-in-law Cathy Holt and Angela Holt; his much loved nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephew; and his constant companion Murphy (“DD”).

During Gary’s childhood, his family lived the Air Force life on bases in Everett and Othello Washington; Amarillo, Texas; Biloxi, Mississippi; and Montgomery, Alabama; with time in Plymouth, Ohio between bases. The family settled in Plymouth when his dad retired in 1974. Gary attended Plymouth High School and graduated in 1979. In high school, he was active in sports (football, basketball, and baseball), an honor student, and met Karen, the love of his life. Gary studied at the Ohio State University and married Karen on December 17, 1983 in Ashland, Ohio. In 1985, he and Karen moved to the Columbus area and settled in Hilliard, Ohio. Gary had a successful career in technology retail working up from a sales representative to management and then the home office.

They lived in Hilliard to raise their three wonderful children and Gary found so much joy in being their father. He supported them in their activities including coaching softball for Kade and Sarah, Scouts for Alex, and going all-in on their interests throughout their lives.

In the face of health challenges, he continued to care for others around him. Time with his family was so important to Gary and he welcomed each new member as the family expanded with partners for his children and as he became “Papa” to his Lottie.

He was a life-long learner, and loved to study history, especially the Civil War. Gary also enjoyed movies, reading, and recently started making terrariums. He had fresh water turtles for many years. He was an avid fan of the Browns, Guardians, and Buckeyes.

When talking to those close to Gary, the constant refrain was his unconditional love. Gary had never met a stranger. When the kids would bring their friends to the house, the friends became his kids as well. No one left his presence without knowing how loved they were.

A Celebration of Gary’s Life will be held Saturday, October 28th at 11:00 am, followed by time to visit with the family from 12:00 pm until 4:00 pm at the Schoedinger Funeral Home in Worthington, Ohio. If you wish to honor Gary, please love other people unconditionally. You may also consider donating to the Gettysburg Foundation, the Franklin County Dog Shelter, a charity of your choice, or those in need.