Shirley Louise Holt

Shirley Louise Holt, age 89, went home to be with her Lord on Monday February 16, 2026. She passed away peacefully in her long-term care home in Burien, WA from complications of Alzheimer’s disease. In the days leading up to her passing, she was surrounded by family and a devoted care team.

Shirley was born in Reading, PA to Frank and Grace Undercuffler and was the second of five children. She graduated from Reading High School in 1954 with honors. She then worked at a department store where she was introduced to her future husband, Richard, by co-worker Goldie, Richard’s sister. Richard and Shirley had a whirlwind courtship, marrying within the month, on Easter Sunday April 10, 1955. Four days after the wedding, Richard was deployed for overseas duty with the U.S. Air Force.

They moved several times across the country during Richard’s military career. Shirley raised two sons, David and Rick, while Richard often worked abroad. After his retirement, they settled in Seattle, WA and bought a home in Ballard where they would live for 45 years. Besides raising their own sons, they also selflessly chose to raise their three grandchildren when circumstances led them into their care.

Shirley expressed her devotion to God by volunteering at Our Redeemer’s Lutheran Church. She served as Chairperson of Martha-Rebecca Circle, Chairperson of Social Ministry Committee, President of WELCA, Coordinator of Lutheran World Relief, and also taught Sunday school. She enjoyed gardening, baking, reading, journaling, writing letters to friends and family, traveling (especially to Hawaii), and going to favorite restaurants like Anthony’s Homeport on special occasions.

In addition to her parents, Shirley was preceded in death by her brother Frank and sister Dorothy.

She is survived by her husband Richard, son Rick, grandchildren Jennifer, Ashley, and Jordan, great-granddaughter Amelia, and sisters Joan and Suzie. In 2025, Richard and Shirley celebrated 70 years of marriage.

Shirley will be greatly missed and remembered for her faith, thoughtfulness, humility, sharp sense of style, and playful humor.

In lieu of flowers, you may honor Shirley with a donation to Lutheran World Relief.