Shara Ann Holt's Obituary
Dr. Shara (Sha) Holt, 74, passed away peacefully on December 9, 2025, in Palm Coast, Florida. Born on October 31, 1951, in Forest City, Arkansas, Sha lived a life rich in purpose, passion, and connection.
A lifelong educator with over four decades of classroom service, Shara dedicated her career to teaching literature and inspiring generations of students to find joy and meaning in the written word. Her love for books was infectious; she not only taught literature but lived it, weaving stories into every lesson and nurturing a deep appreciation for language among her students. Beyond the classroom, she mentored countless new teachers, offering guidance and encouragement that shaped many careers and lives.
Shara’s impact extended far beyond her professional accomplishments. She was a friend to all; warm-hearted, generous with her time and spirit, and deeply devoted to those around her. Though she had no children of her own, she considered her students, numerous exchange students, and colleagues part of her extended family. Her home was always open to laughter, conversation, and companionship.
She shared a profound bond with her beloved husband and soulmate, Jeff Holt, until his passing in March 2011. Their love story was one of mutual respect and enduring affection. In recent years, she found comfort in the presence of her cherished dogs—Savannah, Jackson Brown, Houston, and Boudie; each a loyal companion who brought joy to her days.
Sha embraced life with enthusiasm. She had an eclectic taste in music that spanned from classic rock anthems to the latest pop hits. She loved traveling and exploring new places with friends by her side. Her St. Augustine Pot Luck book club was a treasured part of her routine; a place where stories were shared not just from pages but from life itself.
She is survived by her brother, Bob Wigginton (McKinney, Texas), and by the many students whose lives she touched so profoundly. Her former student from Canton, Mississippi, Paul Norman, became her close friend and caretaker. Sebastian Guth, from Germany, became a surrogate son to her after spending a year with the Holts as an exchange student. Her legacy lives on in every story told and verse remembered in classrooms that still echo with her lessons, and in hearts that are still warmed by her kindness.
A celebration of Shara’s life will be held at Crescent Beach Baptist Church in St. Augustine, Florida on Saturday February 21, 2025 at 10:00 am for those who knew and loved her best. May her memory bring comfort to all who were fortunate enough to know her. Heritage Funeral and Cremation Service of Bunnell, Florida assisted the family with arrangements. https://www.HeritageFlagler.com
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