ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – John William Holt, Jr. passed peacefully from this life on Oct. 8, 2023, surrounded by his family.

John was born Jan. 18, 1948, to John W. and Muriel A. Holt in Suffern, N.Y. John grew up in Pearl River, N.Y., moved to Cape Elizabeth in 1979, and spent the last 19 years in Santa Fe and Albuquerque, N.M.

John attended Cheshire Academy and graduated from Franklin College in 1970 with a degree in Political Science. This served him well in his positions as Press Relations Director for NYC Council President’s Office and as the Director of Special Projects for Governor Angus King of Maine.

John had an interesting and varied career, ranging from marketing and advertising for Hicks and Greist, NYC, N.Y., Grey Advertising, NYC, N.Y., and Hannaford in Maine. He was a partner in Body and Company Advertising, Portland, Holt, Hughes and Stamell, Portland, Holt Consulting Group, Portland, and Criterium Engineering, Portland. After moving to New Mexico, John worked in real estate and property management for Hoamco.

John was active on the Cape Elizabeth School Board, Evergreen Credit Union, United Way, National Governors’ Conference Organizing Committee, and Rotary Clubs of Maine and New Mexico. John was a published author of the book “Celebrate Your Mistakes”.

He enjoyed spending time at the theater, golfing with his long-time friends at Purpoodock Golf Club, Cape Elizabeth and fishing at the lake in the summer. His favorite quote was “The most important thing in the world is family and love” (John Wooden). John lived his life demonstrating his love for his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Carol; sister, Jamie Holt; children, Lauren Springer (William), John III, Hannah, and bonus daughter, Piper Curry (Benjamin); as well as his grandson, Charlie Springer, and bonus grandchildren Charlotte and Everett Curry.

Private service to be held at a later date.