Jerry Holland, the founder of private aviation services firm and FBO network Sheltair, died Tuesday at the age of 90.
Sheltair announced Holland’s passing in a statement on Thursday. He died at home surrounded by loved ones, the company said.
Starting with a single FBO, Holland built Sheltair into the nation’s largest privately held aviation network. The company boasts 16 locations across four states, employs 500 people, and controls almost 5 million square feet of real estate.
Holland was married to his wife, Mikki, for 60 years. He is survived by her, their two daughters, Lisa and Lori, and three grandchildren. Lisa Holland serves as president and CEO of Sheltair, having taken over from her father during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We are proud of all that Sheltair has accomplished, and much of that success is due to the strong foundation my father established,” Lisa Holland said in a statement. “My father always dreamed bigger and was relentless in making those dreams a reality. It’s why we enjoy the success we’re blessed to have today.”
Jerry Holland formed a construction business in 1963. His career took a turn 20 years later when a friend sold him his first set of aircraft hangars at Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport (KFXE) in Florida. Holland broke ground on Sheltair’s flagship FBO at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (KFLL) in 1986 before expanding across the Southeast.
Sheltair noted that Holland did not attend college and was referred to by his family as a “simple man with a big vision.” He rooted the business in integrity and service and fostered a “family first” culture that remains to this day, the company said.
“Jerry’s work ethic and business philosophy made us a leader in the general aviation business,” Sheltair chief operating officer Todd Anderson said in a statement. “I feel privileged for the 25 years I worked for and learned from him. We will miss him dearly.”
Funeral arrangements for Holland are private. An announcement for a public celebration of life will be made soon.
