Loretta Holbrook

Loretta Lee Holbrook was born in September 1931 in Alto, Texas. Growing up a country girl after the Great Depression, life was difficult for Loretta, and she was taught the value of education from a young age. She received her early schooling in Alto and was voted All School Favorite Girl, starred in her Senior play, and graduated as Valedictorian of her Senior class at age 16, two years ahead of schedule.

After graduating, Loretta attended Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, where she earned her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in English and Literature. While attending SFA, she served as Editor and Chief of the yearbook committee, served as Secretary to the Dean of the School of English, and was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma. Between her degrees, Loretta began her first teaching job in Nacogdoches and quickly made new friends who stayed in touch with her throughout her life. When her college roommate asked Loretta to serve as a Bridesmaid in her wedding, she was introduced to the vocalist, Charles Holbrook. Six months later, Charles and Loretta were married on February 28, 1954, at the First United Methodist Church in Nacogdoches, where Charles was on staff at the time.

After moving to Tyler in 1961, Loretta began her long career at Tyler Junior College, which lasted over 30 years. She cherished her long and fulfilling career there, and still stayed in touch with her English buddies.

Loretta’s greatest passions were her family, career, and growing orchids. Her love of history and family prompted her to travel to England three times to search for her ancestral heritage, which became a passion of hers in later years. Loretta has been a member of Marvin United Methodist Church for 59 years and was a member of the Chapel Class.