New England reporter Kathy McCormack spotted the story in a small member newspaper: Geoffrey Holt, known as a frugal and unassuming mobile home park groundskeeper in the small town of Hinsdale, New Hampshire, had left nearly $4 million to his home community when he passed away at age 82. The New England team immediately recognized the power of the story and knew they had to go to the town to tell it properly. They moved quickly, sending in photographer Bob Bukaty for photos and video as McCormack worked the phones. The images and story resonated, and now Holt is being remembered worldwide as a millionaire who gave his fortune to the community, a story that AP broke on the global stage ahead of a holiday dedicated to giving thanks. The package was used widely by members and was matched in publications including The New York Times, Washington Post, People, and others.
Story of frugal millionaire who left NH town his fortune dominates news cycle
Geoffrey Holt is seen in a collection of family photos provided by his estate. Holt left the town of Hinsdale, N.H., nearly $4 million when he died last June.
FAMILY PHOTOS COURTESY OF ED SMITH VIA AP