Mark A. Holbert

Mark passed away peacefully on the morning of Friday, March 6, 2026, at home under the care of his father, Mark Holbert, and Sheila Smith, his second mother.

Born on June 9, 1992, at Overlook Hospital in Summit, New Jersey, Mark was diagnosed at the age of three with autism and seizures. Though these conditions limited his mental development, they never diminished his joy. He was known for his infectious smile and cooperative nature, and his caregivers and medical providers often remarked that he was better than their typical patients. Mark lived and attended school in Metuchen, New Jersey. In 2007, he lost his mother, Verice M. Mason, to breast cancer. He graduated from Metuchen High School in June 2013 and later attended a day program at Prime Time Center in Carteret, New Jersey.

In 2018, Mark moved with his father and Sheila to Arizona. He thrived in the daily warmth, sunshine, and blue skies, and he especially loved swimming in the backyard pool. He attended a day program at Alexander’s Abilities in Tempe, where he was supported by a loving staff and greeted warmly each weekday by fellow participants.

Mark is survived by his father, Mark Holbert, and Sheila Smith, who cared for him with deep devotion. He will be interred next to his mother, Verice, at Glenwood Cemetery at a future date and time to be determined.