Alma Jean Holdridge

.Alma Jean Holdridge, 90, of Gainesville, Florida, passed away peacefully at home on August 27, 2026.

Alma was born on June 25, 1936, in Boone, North Carolina, to Jessie and Mamie Bennett. Throughout her life, Alma was known for her caring heart, strong work ethic, and devotion to her family. She worked at Cotton’s Mini Mart, in retail sales, at A&W, and at Tacachale. She also lovingly cared for children through a daycare she operated out of her own home.

Family was at the center of Alma’s life. She was a devoted and loving caretaker to her husband, Howard, and took great pride in caring for those she loved. Alma also had a special love for flowers, and her appreciation for their beauty was one of the many things that brought her joy.

Alma is survived by her brother, Jimmy Franklin Kirksey; her daughter, Barbara (David) Garman; her nephew, Lloyd Coffey; her grandchildren, Kenneth Holdridge, Michael (Natasha) Holdridge, Charles (Heather) Garman, Amanda (Jason Yopp) Garman, Niki Schmit, and Kelly (Quinlyn Price) Schmit; her great-grandchildren, Charles (Katharynn Stralow) Garman Jr., Trevon Yopp and his children, Kayla (Fernando) Pedroza, Kyana Yopp, Jayceon Yopp, Alanta Yopp and her children, Elijah Yopp, Layla Robinson, Michael Holdridge, Raylynn Price, and Mia Holdridge; and her great-great-grandson, Enzo Pedroza.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Howard Holdridge; her children, Michael Holdridge, Gary Holdridge, and Nancy Schmit; her grandchild, April Willingham; and her great-grandchild, Dylan Holdridge.

Alma was also preceded in death by her sisters, Grace Velma Bennett Coffey, Ollie Belle Bennett Coffey, Ruby Louise Bennett Brown, and Violet Lorene Bennett Brown; and her brothers, Henry Thomas Bennett, Floyd Hubert Bennett, Kenneth Ray Bennett, and Jesse Cleveland “J.C.” Bennett, Jr.

Alma leaves behind a legacy of love, family, and caring that will continue through the many lives she touched. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Alma will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Forest Meadows Funeral Home 725 NW 23rd Ave Gainesville FL 32609