William Jerald Holt

William Jerald “Jerry” Holt, 93, was born July 20, 1933, in Clay County, South Dakota to William and Johanna Holt. He graduated in 1951 from Provo High School in Igloo, South Dakota. In October 1951, he enlisted in the United States Coast Guard. During the Korean war, he served aboard ships in the Atlantic and Pacific as well as shore stations in Florida and Guam.

In 1954, he worked at the Black Hills Army Depot as an ammunition surveillance employee until 1958. After attending Ammunition Inspector School, he served in various assignments as a civilian for the Army including Black Hills Army Depot, Letterkenny Army Depot in Chambersburg, PA; 100 Ordnance Battalion in Mannheim Germany; Fort Story in Virginia Beach, VA; Fort Benning in Columbus, GA; Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam; Fort Devon in Boston, MA; Ammunition Procurement and Supply Agency

in Joliet, IL, Ammunition Material Command in Rock Island Illinois, US Army Headquarters in Zama, Japan, Ammunition Center and School in Savanna, IL. After 40 years of military and civilian service he retired as Chief of the Ammunition Maintenance Division Army Armament Munitions and Chemical Command, Rock Island, IL.

Jerry married Eunice Anderson on April 29, 1955. He was dedicated to his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He loved fishing, hunting, golf and gardening.

He was always active in every church he belonged, serving in many roles from maintenance to Elder. His faith was always his true foundation and gave him peace during the last years of his life. His favorite hymns were “O God Our Help in Ages Past”, “Amazing Grace” and “My Heart in Longing”.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Eunice; three children Cindi (David), Lorie and Greg (Kim); 8 grandchildren Matthew, Lyndsy, Brian, Chelsea, Erin, Chad, Rachael and TJ; and 7 great grandchildren, Avree, Emmersen, Finley, Ruby, Penelope, Olivia, Maddox, Thor, Kennedy, Quinn, Finn and Leif. 

He is preceded in death by his parents, brother Verlyn, his sister Jo Ann and his son-in-law David. Jerry saw goodness and grace in everyone. He lived his life with deep faith, a love for his family, and an appreciation for the simple blessings of each day. His favorite saying was “Life is Good”, which was a reflection of the way he chose to live life.

Memorials may be sent to Grace Lutheran Church, Oskaloosa, Iowa. Https://.grace-wels.org (https://.grace-eels.org/). Cards for Eunice can be sent in care of Cindi Bedell,144 Shady Shores Dr, Mabank, TX. 75156.