Eugene Holt, Sr. was born November 15, 1926 to the late Louise and Quilla Holt in Orlando, Florida. The third of eleven children, Eugene was educated in the Orange County Public School System. His education was interrupted while attending Jones High School to go to work at the age of 16. At age 18, Eugene was inducted into the Army where he served his country for two years. Upon returning to Orlando, he completed high school and matriculated to South Carolina State University where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education. He would later be inducted into the University’s Football Hall of Fame, and honored as one of the 100 Greatest Football Players to ever play for the program.
Eugene came to know Christ for himself at an early age. He was baptized by Rev. T.C. Collier at Shiloh Baptist Church. He remain faithful and committed in his walk with the Lord. Eugene was a founding member of The Greater Trinity Baptist Fellowship Church.
Professionally, Eugene was equally committed and dedicated. He taught for two years in South Carolina before relocating back to the Central Florida area where he served 23 years as the Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Winter Park. Upon retirement, Eugene decided to pursue his dream of entrepreneurship and opened his own sporting goods store that he enjoyed over 10 years.
Always active in the community, “Choo-Choo” as he was affectionately known, held membership in numerous civic and social organizations. He was a faithful and contributing member of:
* Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Incorporated
* Council of City of Eatonville
* Elks
* Amvets
* South Carolina State University National Alumni Association
* South Carolina State University Central Florida Chapter
* Police Athletic League (PAL)
* Jones High School Alumni Association Class of 1949
Eugene leaves a legacy of love, cherishing fond memories a loving and devoted wife of 58 years Yvonne; children: Dwight (Yvonne) Lawnside, NJ, Eugene, Jr. (Jackie) Sanford, FL, Cecil (Carla) Winter Garden, FL; grandchildren: Kim, Maureen, Dwight, Jr. Darius, Jamilia, Kiera, Zuri, Azya, Cecil Jr., Joshua; twelve great-grandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews and cousins, a devoted cousin Elisa and two angels, Charlie and Fatima Billings who served as his caregivers for six years.
Stumbled upon this obituary recently, had no idea Coach had passed. Rest in Power a great mentor,role model and frat brother.
To Mama, Eugene, Jr., Cecil,
It saddens me to learn Pop’s passing. He was one of my mentors. He helped get our Drum Corp off the ground as well as help pave the way for a lot of us who knew him and grew up in Winter Park become better young men. And for that, I’m very grateful. My heart and prayers goes out to my extended family and also know that I’m always here for all of you. Rest in Heavenly Peace, Pop! ONE LOVE!
Your Brother Always,
Reuben