Joelyn Lee Holt Obituary (1942 - 2025)

Joelyn Lee Holt passed away on July 7, 2025. Jo is survived by Duane (her loving husband of 57 years), their children (Matthew and Rachael), and their three grandchildren. Jo was born to Maude and Cliff Ferrell on November 17, 1942. She grew up in the South Bay with her brother, Dick, and sister, Pat, and graduated from South High (Torrance) and San Jose State University. She met Duane in New York City while working as a flight attendant; they married in 1968. She began her career teaching science to middle school grades in Torrance. During the 1970s and 80s, they moved to the Bay Area, Kentucky, Ohio, and Orange County, and she devoted her time to raising Matt and Rachael. She resumed teaching in the late 80s, first as a substitute teacher in Cincinnati, then working for 19 years at St. John's Episcopal School in Rancho Santa Margarita, California. Jo loved to laugh and be with her family, especially when venturing outdoors and enjoying a scenic trail. Upon retirement in 2008, she and Duane traveled across the United States and Canada in their 32-foot RV. After moving to Gig Harbor, Jo continued to share her love for science and nature by volunteering at the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium. We invite you to share your memories of Jo and upload photos to the memorial page. Let us celebrate her life and remember the joy and laughter she brought into ours.