You never know what someone is hiding behind closed doors.

That is what the quiet town of Hinsdale, N.H., is finding out. The residents were accustomed to seeing Geoffrey Holt, the unassuming caretaker of Stearns Park mobile home park, living a simple and frugal life.

Wearing threadbare clothes and often seen riding a lawnmower, Holt’s unpretentious existence was a far cry from the multimillionaire he turned out to be. And his wish for his millions left the town, and his friends, in shock.

Holt’s decision to gift his $3.8 million fortune to the town he called home was described as a heartwarming and unexpected blessing.

His best friend and former employer, Edwin “Smokey” Smith, couldn’t hide his amazement. “I was sort of dumbfounded when I found out that all of it went to the town.” Holt, it seemed, was content with life’s simple pleasures.

Hoyt with family and friends throughout the years. Photos provided to the Associated Press

Smith knew Holt, who died at age 82, had varied interests, like collecting hundreds of model cars and train sets, as well as books about history.

He had worked as a production manager at a grain mill that closed in nearby Brattleboro, Vermont, and, Smith said, invested his money. Holt would find a quiet place to sit near a brook and study financial publications. But the extent of his earnings went unknown.

Steve Diorio, chairperson of the town selectboard, reflected the sentiment of the community – shock at the surprise generosity of Holt.

I don’t think anyone had any idea that he was that successful.”

Holt’s will revealed a generous plan to benefit Hinsdale, directing funds towards education, health, recreation, and culture.

Smokey Smith, now the executor of Holt’s estate, painted a vivid picture of his friend, saying, “Geoffrey was an interesting individual. He was very articulate but had some unusual characteristics. He just showed up and did what he had to do.”

Hoyt’s modest home was decorated with his many collections.

Managed through a trust with the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation, the funds will become grants, providing an annual interest of around $150,000. Local residents have already started brainstorming ideas for the windfall, with Kathryn Lynch, the town administrator, promising to “utilize the money left very frugally as Mr. Holt did.”

Holt’s sister, Alison Holt, shared insights into his motivations, revealing, “Geoffrey had a learning disability. He had dyslexia. When it came to writing or spelling, he was a lost cause. I think that Geoff felt like he was disappointing my dad. But maybe socking away all that money was a way to (compensate).” This glimpse into Holt’s personal struggles and triumphs only added a layer of warmth to his story.

Residents are hopeful that Holt’s unexpected and substantial gift will shine a spotlight on their often-overlooked town. Holt’s generosity will undoubtedly leave an enduring mark on the community he quietly loved.

Watch below, for a look at this secret multi-millionaire.

Sources: Daily Mail | AP News