Dr. Holt, a deeply respected and legendary physician, passed on Saturday, October 6, 2007. A lover of African arts and artifacts, Dr. Holt has established an endowment to benefit the YMI Cultural Center . The family has asked that in lieu of flowers or other donations, memorial contributions may be sent to the YMI Cultural Center , 39 S. Market St. , Asheville , NC 28801 . Contributions can also be received at the Bank of Asheville (account 0140038266).
The Holt Endowment for the Arts will be a permanent endowment for the purpose of advancing, training, and promoting public knowledge of the Arts. The Board of Directors of the endowment's Foundation, which includes two members of Dr. Holt's family, will invest the fund principal and make payouts from its earnings. The public, and corporations who support these goals, may contribute additional assets.
Alternatively, donations may be made to Hopkins Chapel AME Zion Church , 21 College Place , Asheville , NC 28801 , where Dr. Holt was a long-time dedicated member.
Born and raised in Asheville , Dr. Holt graduated from Stephens-Lee High School in 1937. After completing his studies at Morgan State College and Brown University , Dr. Holt received his medical degree from Meharry Medical College . He began private family practice in 1960, and was one of only two African American physicians in Asheville at the time. He served his patients until his retirement in April of this year.
In addition to his involvement with the YMI Cultural Center and his church, Dr. Holt served on the Asheville City Board of Education, the Executive Board of the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce, the former Human Rights Commission, Asheville Housing Authority, Old North State Medical Society, Buncombe County Medical Society, and the National Medical Association. He received the Distinguished Service Award for Lifetime Achievement given by the Asheville Buncombe Community Relations Council in 2004.
Funeral Services were held on Saturday, October 13, 2007and burial at Violet Hill Cemetery .
