Willie Mae Holt

Born in Greene County on April 9, 1921, Willie Mae lived a very long and fulfilling life.

She was married to J.A. Holt for 61 years before his death on September 21, 2010.

Willie Mae graduated from Greeneville High School in 1940 and from Draughons Business College in Knoxville. She also attended Penn State University where she took extra classes.

Throughout her career, during her early years, Mrs. Holt was employed by the Civil Service from 1942 thru 1946 in Washington, DC and Philadelphia, PA. After transferring to TVA in Norris, TN, she worked until she retired in 1953 to become a full-time homemaker and mother.

Always enjoyed being involved, Willie Mae was a lifetime member of the YWCA in Bristol, TN, where she served as a former member of the board of directors, was a member of the USO Young Women’s Christian Association during World War II, and a former volunteer of North Side Hospital in Johnson City, TN.

During her life, she always loved participating in many activities and gardening was an interest which she considered her therapy. Watching basketball was a favorite sport which helped to occupy her time.

After returning to Greene County, Willie Mae became a member of Pine Grove United Methodist Church, now Pine Grove Church, on December 22, 2013. Formerly, she was an active member of Edgemont Presbyterian Church in Bristol, TN, where she resided for 48 years.

Willie Mae was a devoted wife, loving and dedicated mother, sister, aunt, and sister-in-law. In her later years one of her favorite pastimes was reminiscing about past experiences with her family and friends. She could remember vividly every detail no matter the subject or amount of time that had passed. She also enjoyed frequenting yard sales, thrift stores and antique shops. “Everyone who knew Willie Mae is aware of her love for the Lord, her family, her friends, and life itself.”

Survivors include one son, Joseph James Holt of Greene County; and nephews, Dennis Pierce and Mark Smelcer.

She was preceded in death by her husband, J.A. Holt; her parents, Rome and Pearl Neas Smelcer; and a brother, Glenn Smelcer.

Pallbearers will be Jason Malone, Suzanne Masoner, Richard Hobbs, Don Henry, Kenny Morrison and Jim Easterly.

Joe expresses special thanks to the Morning Pointe staff and nurses for all the loving care that was shown to his mother, to Greeneville Community Hospital East 4th Floor nurses and doctors, and to Ballad Health Hospice for their great care.

There will be no formal visitation. Family and friends are asked to gather for a graveside service, which will be held at Pine Grove Church Cemetery on Bright Hope Road on Wednesday morning, January 24, at 11:00 a.m. The Rev Sam Smith and Rev. Jim Fain will officiate, with Rev. Steve Ryman, soloist.

Memorials may be made to Pine Grove Church, c/o Patricia Ann Clowers, 2020 Little Warrensburg Road, Midway, TN 37809.

Kiser-Rose Hill Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.kiserrosehillfuneralhome.com