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Linwood (Lin) Holdridge was welcomed into his new life on Friday, December 18, 2020 after a courageous battle with COVID -19. He was 71 years of age. He was a native of Burnside, a long time resident of Gonzales and resided in Metairie after his retirement. Linwood is survived by his mother, Joy Boudreaux Holdridge; his siblings, Bob Holdridge (Crystal), Guy Holdridge (Jackie), Jill Holdridge, and Jean Holdridge Schaffer (David). He is also survived by his nieces and nephews of whom he was very proud; Shane Holdridge, Adrienne Holdridge, Aimee Holdridge Degeyter, Nicole Schaffer, Reed Holdridge, Garrett Holdridge, Allison Schaffer, and Meagan Holdridge. He was preceded in death by his father, Herbert J. Holdridge. Linwood was a graduate of the first graduating class of East Ascension High School (EAHS) and received his college degree from Southeastern University. He was a long-time teacher of Drama and Speech at EAHS until his retirement. For many summers, holidays, and school breaks, he worked (and played) at Disney World in Florida. He was truly a lover of the Arts and brightened the lives of his students with his many plays, half-time shows, homecoming decorations and Christmas Spectaculars! From students performing Broadway and Disney shows, to scores of dancers performing with the band at EAHS halftimes, to students creating elaborate decorations at Christmas culminating with angels singing Christmas Carols from the roof of the school, Linwood always had his students engaged in some activity to increase their appreciation of the Arts. As many students have said, Wood 's classroom was an open door for all students who may be different or alone or in need of a safe place where they would not be judged but could escape for a few hours into a different world of song, dance, and laughter. Linwood also gave back to his community by first participating in the Baton Rouge Little Theatre before bringing theatre to Gonzales by being one of the organizers of the first Gonzales Little Theatre. He directed many plays for the Gonzales Little Theatre and until very recently was still helping in any way he could with the Ascension Community Theatre. He started the Jambalaya Generation Singers who performed at Festivals and other occasions. Linwood was responsible for lighting up the skies of Gonzales with spectacular firework displays and was responsible for light shows, performances, and the firework display for the 75th Anniversary Spectacular of the City of Gonzales. Linwood directed performances for many charitable balls, shows, and extravaganzas at the Assembly Center, River Center, and other locations in the City of Baton Rouge. A Catholic Burial Mass will be held at St. Theresa of the Avila in Gonzales on Wednesday, December 23 at 10:00. A private burial will be held at Hope Haven Cemetery. Due to CDC regulations the family will not be having a visitation. The family would like to thank the COVID Intensive Care Unit of Ochsner Medical Center Jefferson Highway for their care and support. In this terrible COVID environment, we ask that Linwood's numerous friends, co-workers, and previous students honor him privately with a toast, a song that they sing aloud, or a dance to their favorite music. Remember his spirit by engaging in the Arts and spreading his goodwill. In lieu of flowers, any donations may be made in his name to the Ascension Community Theatre. To offer condolences to the family, please visit www.oursofh.com. Funeral Arrangements entrusted with Ourso Funeral Home of Gonzales.
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Linwood taught both of our daughters at East Ascension. He was a person who took pride in what he did. He will be missed, but he left a legacy through all those who he taught or mentored that will continue. Our condolences to his Mom, Brothers, Sisters, and all his Family and Friends. May He Rest in Peace.
Barnie Salinas
Friend
December 23, 2020
My sympathy and prayers to all the family. Linwood was one of a kind gentlemen and great teacher. Everyone who met him loved him and he loved them. He enjoyed life and was very good at everything he did for school and outside of school. He will be missed by all. May he rest in peace.
BARBARA H. MELANCON
Friend
December 22, 2020
To Mrs Joy and the entire family our thoughts and prayers are with you. May God bless you all and help you through this difficult time. I will always remember Linwood’s smile. He enjoyed life and will be missed by many!
Anna and Danny Brignac
Friend
December 22, 2020
What a honor it was to work with Lin. Thank you for your wonderful talent and the great memories you brought to all who were engaged with your productions. He was always creative and professionally managed all rehearsals and shows. Lin gave generously to the performing community and will always be remembered for his contribution to the art of dance, theatre, and chartable events. Rest in peace my friend.
Kris Cangelosi
Friend
December 22, 2020
I knew Linwood to be a hard-working, very talented person. I am so sorry for your loss, and I am praying for his family. Rest in peace. Vickie Burt
Vickie Burt
Friend
December 21, 2020
I am so grateful to have known and worked creatively with Lin in theatre and benefits like "Dancing With Big Buddy" and "Dancing For A Cause." We would have interesting planning meetings that mostly involved him telling me "No, it's not the Leonard Augustus Show." Of course he was wrong. (just kidding) Even when we disagreed, he would always offer such kind and supportive affirmations after I passively defied his instructions. Mostly costume and dramatic entrance choices. I'm so glad our last encounter was filled with him being complimentary and uniquely nostalgic. He shared how much he appreciated me and couldn't wait to see what creative costume I would come up with next. I needed that from him. It's really surreal to think he's no longer with us in the flesh. I'm sure over the coming days, memories will flood my mind and gratitude comfort me as I remember him, his energy, his humor, and visions. Love, Grace, and Peace to his family.
Leonard Augustus Jr
Friend
December 21, 2020
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
mari
Acquaintance
December 20, 2020
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
From the Staff of Ourso Funeral Home
December 20, 2020
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