Timothy E. Holt, 75, of DeKalb, Illinois, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, November 29, 2025.

He was born October 30, 1950, in Chicago, Illinois, the son of Leslie and Shirley (Davis) Holt. Tim grew up in Sauk Village alongside his twin brother, Tom, and sister, Terrie.

Football was in Tim’s blood. He began his career at Bloom High School, playing alongside his brother Tom. The twins went on to play football at Northern Illinois University, where Tim earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees.

Tim called DeKalb home. He taught at DeKalb High School for 38 years, but his greatest passion was coaching. Coach Holt devoted countless hours to practice, games, and reviewing football tapes. In the spring, he coached track. He left his mark on generations of students who will remember his easy smile, kind heart, and nerves of steel. If you grew up in DeKalb and turned 16 during this time, chances are Tim taught you—or someone in your family—to drive.

Outside of school, Tim cherished each day with the love of his life, his wife Pam. Together they traveled the country and abroad, sharing adventures. They were truly best friends. 

In addition to Pam, Tim is survived by his brother Tom (Annette) Holt and his sister Terrie Harrington; his brother-in-law Wayne Fertwagner and sister-in-law Laurie (Tom) Muscolino; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leslie and Shirley Holt.

A Celebration of Life will be held on April 11, 2026 at 2pm at the Chuck Dayton Gymnasium at DeKalb High School, 501 W Dresser Rd, DeKalb, IL 60115.  In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the Timothy Holt Family, in care of Anderson Funeral Home, P.O. Box 605, 2011 South Fourth Street, DeKalb, IL 60115. These gifts will be used to support the DeKalb High School Football and Track programs.

Tim’s legacy lives on in the countless students, athletes, friends, and family who were touched by his generosity, humor, and love.