Ernest Berry Holt Jr.

Ernest Berry Holt, Jr.

Nashville, TN

Ernest Berry Holt, Jr., born June 7, 1921 in Nashville, TN, the son of Ernest B. Holt, Sr. and Geneva Holt, passed away peacefully Friday, March 20, 2015.

Ernest is survived by his wife of 68 years, Margaret; his twin sister, Nora Holt Williams; his daughter, Lynn Holt Ragland (Jim) and son, E. Berry Holt (Celeste). In addition, he is survived by his grandchildren, James B. Ragland III, Atlanta, GA, Dr. Margaret Ragland (Ian Love), Chicago, IL, Margaret H. Rittenhouse (Matt), Minneapolis, MN, Kathryn Holt, Boulder, CO, Laura Holt, Nashville, TN, Will Holt, Los Angeles, CA, and great-grandchildren, Claire and Jack Rittenhouse.

Ernest served 4 years in the US Army Air Corp during World War II, primarily in the Pacific Marian Islands, including Saipan and Iwo Jima. After those difficult experiences, he resolved to never sleep in a tent again. His children appreciated not having to take camping vacations. In addition, his family regularly ate at less popular restaurants due to his aversion, also acquired in the military, to standing in lines. He was a faithful member of Calvary United Methodist Church serving in many capacities, including the Chair of the Administrative Board in the mid-1960s, supporting then-pastor Sam Dodson in leading needed changes in our community.

He started his business career at General Shoe Corp. (Genesco) in 1948 and served as its Treasurer during some of the most expansive and also trying times in the company's history. He worked out of loyalty and dedication to the company and for those there whom he cared for deeply. After 32 years at Genesco, he became Senior Vice President at Third National Bank (SunTrust), where he again made close friends while continuing to work with humble appreciation and dedication to the work he had to do. During his entire career, he shared his experience and knowledge with many young executives and gave freely of his expertise with his own style and humor. After 10 years with SunTrust he retired, but continued to mentor and support many Middle Tennessee businesses. As a member of SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executive Association), he worked for an additional 10 years, continuing with late nights at home in this work just as he had for Genesco and SunTrust.

He loved his many pups over the years who replaced the quiet at home after his children went off to college. Ernest was loved by his wife, children and grandchildren beyond measure. He will be missed, but remembered by all those who loved him. He constantly returned that same love as the primary purpose of his life. He was kind, generous, funny, high-spirited, humble and appreciated his blessings.

Honorary Pallbearers are the members of the Red Letter class of Calvary United Methodist Church and his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Visitation Tuesday, March 24 at 11 a.m., with a Memorial service at Noon, both at Calvary United Methodist Church, 3701 Hillsboro Pike, 37215. Private burial to follow.

In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to Calvary United Methodist Church or the charity of your choice.

Visit the online obituary: www.MarshallDonnellyCombs.com.