Jean E. Holt was born June 22, 1888. She received her academic training at Brandon Collegiate, and was closely connected to Brandon’s First United and later with Victoria Avenue United Church, in which she retained her membership at least until 1931. She attended Normal School and taught before leaving for Toronto where she attended the Methodist National Training School, graduating in 1913.  She served in China with the Woman’s Missionary Society, serving two terms in Junghsein, Szechewan.  She returned to Canada in 1927 and in 1929 she attended United Colleges (Manitoba College and Wesley College) where she completed her BA and the Deaconess Program. (Year book biography) The picture to the left is from her 1931 graduation. While at the school Jean was active in the Student Christian Movement and the Social Welfare Committee.  The yearbook reports, “She possesses a sincere, sympathetic, broad understanding heart, and a sweet cheery disposition.” 

She was admitted to the Deaconess Order June, 5, 1931 by Manitoba Conference.  The Conference Committee on Ordination remarked, “She is a fine personality and will no doubt render excellent service to the cause of the Kingdom of God in her chosen field.”

Jean left for China again in September 1931, where she served until 1949.  She died April 14, 1979, in Collingwood, Ontario.

There is a rich story to be explored in the life and work of this long serving minister, waiting for a researcher!