Holt Supply founder John Raymond Holt passed away peacefully on February 24, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was 99 years old.

John was born in La Salle, Illinois and spent his early years in the Illinois Valley area before his family moved to Galesburg. After graduating from Corpus Christi High School, John proudly served in the United States Navy during World War II.

In 1947, John began his working life on the loading dock of May Company, a plumbing and heating wholesale business in Galesburg. He later entered the plumbing trade, becoming a journeyman plumber and launching his own contracting firm, John R. Holt, Inc. At age 45, he sold that business and returned to the wholesale industry, founding PHC Supply Company, which later became Holt Supply Company. Over the years, the company grew into a successful, family-owned business that today spans three generations—an enduring part of his legacy and a source of deep pride throughout his life.

John married Margaret Kennedy in 1948. They raised their nine children in Galesburg, before moving to Bloomington in 2005, where several of their children had settled. John and Margaret shared more than 61 years of marriage until her passing in 2010.

A man of deep faith, John was a devout member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Bloomington. He believed deeply in the power of faith to shape a meaningful life and was an incredible example of living that faith every day. He treated people with kindness, humility, and respect—values rooted in his belief in God and lived out in the way he approached every relationship.

John lived independently throughout his life, remaining active in his church and community. Creative and skilled with his hands, he found joy in woodworking, landscaping, and watercolor painting. But more than any hobby, John loved people. He had an extraordinary memory and a sincere interest in others. He listened deeply, remembered details effortlessly, and made every person feel valued. These qualities made him a treasured friend and trusted confidant to many.

John leaves behind a legacy of faith, family, hard work, and genuine love for people—a legacy that will continue to guide and inspire all who were blessed to know him.

SERVICES

A visitation will be held from 4:00–7:00 p.m. on March 5, 2026, at Carmody-Flynn Williamsburg Funeral Home, Bloomington, IL, followed by a private family Rosary service.

His life will be celebrated at a private family Mass at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Bloomington, IL, followed by a private graveside service in Galesburg, IL.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 527 W Jackson St., Bloomington, IL 61701, or a charity of your choice.