A former Tampa Bay Buccaneer died on February 13th. He was 53.

A memorial service will take place on Saturday, at 11 a.m., at Florida Mortuary, 4601 N. Nebraska Avenue. John Holt was chosen by the Buccaneers in 1981 in the fourth round out of West Texas. He played five years for the team, posting 53 starts. As the Bucs advanced to the NFL playoffs, he also averaged 24.9 yards on kickoff returns and 11.1 yards returning punts. After playing for the Bucs, Holt joined the Colts in 1986, and finished his career after 3 seasons there. His final year reflected seven interceptions and nine fumble recoveries.

Doug Williams, former Buccaneer quarterback said when he learned that Holt was ill, he texted him and Holt texted him back, thanking him for his (Williams’) concern. Danny Reece, also a former Buccaneer, said Holt replaced him on the team. “I met him when the Bucs played the 49ers and he was a pleasure to be around. He was a very humble person and was driven. This is another young Buc gone too soon. There are too many young Black men dying from all kinds of strange elements.”

In addition to Ms. Janet Neiden Holt, his wife of 30 years, Holt is survived by his mother, two brothers, four sisters, and other relatives and friends. Donations in Holt’s memory can be made to LifePath Hospice.