Alberta “Marie” Holt, 78, of Winfield, Kansas, went to be with her Lord and Savior on August 24, 2026.

Marie was born in Clay Center, Kansas, the daughter of Russell William and Opal Maudie (Sparks) Larson. and lived in Arkansas City, Kansas for most of her early life. She attended Arkansas City High School and graduated in 1965.

Marie married William B. Dempsey, Jr. on July 19, 1965, and they made their home in Arkansas City, where they were blessed with a daughter Dawn Renee. The marriage ended at five years. Marie met the love of her life Ora O. “Jack” Holt, III and they were joined in marriage on December 26, 1973. They remained married for 20 years when Jack preceded her in death in 1993.

Jack and Marie ran a number of successful businesses in Arkansas City and Winfield, including Arnold’s Used Furniture as well as owning and managing a number of rental properties across Cowley County. Marie continued to successfully acquire and manage rental properties throughout her life.

Her faith was very important to her, Marie was saved and was always actively involved in church and Christian ministry, attending Hillcrest Bible Baptist Church in Arkansas City for many years, then Northside Baptist Church, until joining Calvary Chapel in Arkansas City, faithfully attending services there as long as she was able. She also served on the board of Family Life Services for many years.

Marie is survived by her sister Monita Fields of Arkansas City; her daughter Dawn (Dempsey) Kelley and husband, Mike of Winfield; two step-sons, John Holt and wife, Candi of Tonkawa, OK; Brian Holt of Ponca City, OK; three grandchildren, Carissa Anderson and husband, Tom of Blue Springs, MO; Savannah Wilson and husband, Jesse of Branson, MO; Isabella Kelley of Belfast, Ireland; and her six great grandsons.

Marie was preceded in death by her husband, Jack Holt, parents, Russell and Opal Larson, two nieces, Stephanie Fields and Jamie Fields, and a brother-in-law Stanley Fields.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM, Saturday, August 29, 2026 at Miles Funeral Service in Winfield. Interment will follow at Highland Cemetery. A visitation is scheduled Friday from 4 to 8 PM. The family will greet visitors from 5 to 7 that evening.

A memorial has been established in Marie’s name for Family Life Services in Arkansas City. Contributions may be made through the funeral home.