June 21, 2024, Joseph "Freddie" Holt, 88, of Clermont, Florida, passed away peacefully at home with his cherished wife of 54 years at his side. Joseph and Jo moved to Central Florida in 1989, after Joseph retired as a corrections officer from the Enfield Correctional Institution. Joseph always followed his enterprising spirit. He started businesses in both Connecticut and Florida and found his greatest satisfaction as a home builder and realtor.

Joseph was also a proud U.S. Air Force Veteran and served his country from 1955 to 1963. During that time, Joseph was stationed in both Greenland and Morocco.

Joseph was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. So many of his family and friends relied on his strength and good humor. Joseph saw the best in everyone. He also loved to entertain. For decades, he and his wife celebrated New Year's Day with a veritable feast at their Clermont home.

When Joseph was not entertaining, or starting a new business, he was out fishing! And that is where he met a host of friends over the years. He also shared his love of fishing with his girls, who are all capable anglers and storytellers.

Joseph was predeceased by his father Monroe Holt, his mother Caroline Holt, his sister Elizabeth Holt Kelley, and his brother Roosevelt Holt.

Joseph is survived by his devoted wife Jo; his daughters Rhonda Holt Little McBride (Son-in-law David McBride), Melonie Holt Yates (Son-in-law Joseph Yates), and Leslie Holt-Pierce (Son-in-law Leslie Pierce); his sister, Naimah Hasan; grandchildren Beatrice Mathis (Husband Timothy Mathis Jr.), Alicia Dennis, Eres Pierce, and Joseph Yates; great-grandchildren Morgan Mathis, and Maverick Mathis; and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends.