Editor’s note: This story was updated to add two tributes from Vernon College and Vernon ISD faculty.

VERNON ( KFDX/KJTL ) — Services for a long-time Vernon pastor and educator are pending following a two-car crash yesterday near Vernon College.

Irl Holt, 90, died Thursday afternoon when his Buick was struck by a Dodge Charger westbound on College Drive.

Police Chief Wayne Hodges said Holt appeared to be driving to Vernon College and was crossing over the four lanes of College Drive from Hospital Drive when he was struck on the passenger side.

The impact sent his car into a field, where it hit a brick wall and rolled on its side. The Jaws of Life had to be used to remove him.

The driver of the Charger went to the hospital with minor injuries and has been released. Hodges says the investigation of the crash is ongoing.

The Rev. Holt retired in 2021 after serving as pastor of Fargo United Methodist Church for more than 50 years. Church members say he had an infectious humor and welcomed all who entered his church.

One of his fondest memories was having people traveling down the highway drop into his church unexpectedly.

“I’ve had weddings for several generations of kids. I’ve had funerals for five generations of one family, all right here. They are just my people,” Holt told us at his retirement ceremony. The day he retired was declared Irl Holt Day by the Mayor of Vernon.

Holt retired as an educator and administrator in Vernon ISD in 1997 and continued serving his church. Between 1963 and 1997, he was also a middle school guidance counselor, an elementary and middle school principal, and the director of federal programs for Vernon ISD.

Last spring, Holt was named retired teacher of the year in Vernon for his service to the community. He was also an avid supporter of Vernon College and served on its board of trustees for many years.

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