Shirley Ann (Griffin) Holt

“She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.” — Proverbs 31:25

Shirley Ann Holt, age 87, entered eternal rest on February 23, 2026. She was a loving mother, cherished family member, devoted friend, and a true woman of God. Shirley will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her kindness, and the strength she displayed throughout her life. Her legacy of love and devotion will forever remain in the hearts of those blessed to know her.

Family and friends are invited to gather in celebration of Shirley’s life on March 14, 2026, at House of Prayer Community Church, 6175 E. 46th Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46226. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life service at 12:00 p.m.

Sprowl Funeral & Cremation Care is honored to walk alongside the Holt family during this time of remembrance and care.

Mother Shirley Ann Griffin Holt was born on October 31, 1938, to Elger and Betty Griffin in Indianapolis, Indiana. She was their firstborn and only daughter. She received her education through the Indianapolis Public Schools and attended the historic Crispus Attucks High School. 

Mother Holt spent her youth at Bethany Temple Apostolic Church, where she was baptized in Jesus’ name and filled with the Holy Ghost. It was there that she met the love of her life, Bishop Roy R. Holt. On March 29th of 1955, they were united in holy matrimony, and from this blessed union six children were born—three daughters and three sons. 

Mother Holt had a heart for caring for others, which led her into the nursing profession. Her nurturing spirit made her a natural caregiver to many. 

On February 23, 1975, she and her husband were installed as Pastor and First Lady of Bethany Temple Apostolic Church. During her time there, Mother Holt faithfully served in many roles, including Sunday School teacher and soprano in the choir. She was a devoted servant of the Lord who loved sharing her testimony and never hesitated to give God praise. 

Mother Holt was a true family woman who lovingly supported her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. From her home, she made sure the children were prepared and sent off to school each day. Summers were often spent at her home, where grandchildren enjoyed time in the garden, passing out church flyers, and swimming in the backyard. 

She enjoyed watching the Indiana Pacers and Indiana University basketball teams, and one of her favorite players was Stephen Curry. 

After the passing of Bishop Holt, Mother Holt moved her membership in September 2014 to Jesus House of Prayer Temple of the Apostolic Faith under the leadership of Elect Pastor Anious R. Yeakey and Elder Dr. Merle T. Yeakey. There, she remained a beloved and respected member of the church family. 

Mother Holt peacefully transitioned on Monday, February 23, 2026. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Elger and Betty Griffin; her brothers, Percy, Ronald, and William Griffin; her daughters, Teresa Sherrell and Cheryl Holt; and her sons, Roy R. Holt Jr., Kelvin Holt, and Mark Holt. 

She leaves to cherish her loving memory her devoted daughter, Melissa Fellows, and son-in-love, Stephen Fellows; along with a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews & her beloved church family at Jesus House of Prayer Temple of the Apostolic Faith.

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