Veteran Arkansas sports reporter Bob Holt passes away

Bob Holt, veteran sports reporter for Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, passes away after a legendary career in journalism.

Bob Holt, a renowned sports reporter for the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, passed away on December 4. 

Holt, a graduate of the University of Missouri, had covered University of Arkansas Razorbacks athletics since 1981, becoming known for his in-depth and insightful reporting. 

Holt was a member of the Football Writers Association of America and served on the board of the U.S. Basketball Writers Association. He was also voted for the Heisman Trophy and the AP Top 25 basketball poll.

Over his career, Holt was named Arkansas Sportswriter of the Year four times and was inducted into the Arkansas Sportscasters and Sportswriters Hall of Fame. 

Wally Hall, a sports columnist for the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, announced Holt’s death on X, formerly Twitter, calling him “one of the last great true journalists.” 

Holt passed away at 10:38 p.m., and Hall noted that the attending doctor was a former Razorback baseball player.

Bob Holt, one of the last great true Journalist passed at 10:38 tonight. Ironically the doctor on duty was a former Razorback baseball player. Bob was an amazing person. Kindest most gentle man in the world, always lifting people up and helping them.

— Wally Hall (@WallyLikeItIs) December 5, 2024

Fans paid tribute to Holt’s legacy online, remembering his impact on Arkansas sports journalism.

Incredibly sad news. Bob was a one-of-a-kind person and a one-in-a-million journalist. I’m going to miss his sparring with coaches at media days and the visits on air and at events. RIP Bob! https://t.co/orGfax71YF

— Justin Acri (@JustinAcri7) December 5, 2024

At the time of writing, the cause of death remains unclear.