James H. Holmes

1931 ∼ 2021

James H. Holmes

James Hardy Holmes, affectionally known as “JH” was born September 17, 1931, in Longview, Texas, to the late Ollie Holmes, Sr. and Lucille (Smith) Holmes. From this union, James was the eldest son. He departed this life January 16, 2021 in Beaumont, Tx.

James graduated from Longview Colored High School in 1947, and furthered his education at Bishop College. Upon completion in 1951, he received a Bachelors in History with a minor in Architecture. In 1952, James was drafted during the Korean War and proudly served his country in the United States Army. After receiving an honorable discharge in 1954, he moved and resided in Silsbee, Texas. At this time, James started his 52-year long career as a railroad conductor and brakeman for the Santa Fe Railroad. He became a life member of the United Transportation Union (UTU).

James Hardy was a lifelong member of the Church of Christ. He was a devoted Son, Brother, and Uncle, that will be dearly missed.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ollie and Lucille Holmes; brother, Ollie Holmes, Jr.; and nephew, Frederick Holmes.

He is survived by his brother, Sidney Holmes, Sr. of Silsbee; nieces, Karen Taylor, Terri Kibbles (Winston), and Leslie Dodis; nephews, Keith Holmes (Delores), and Sidney Holmes, Jr. (Deshauna); and a host of great nieces, great nephews, and cousins.

Pallbearers

(Nephews)

Keith Holmes, Sidney Holmes Jr., Damian Taylor, Darian Dodis, Sidney Holmes III, and Ryon Holmes

Honorary Pallbearers

Members of the United Transportation Union

Acknowledgements

Our hearts have been lifted with all the thoughtful expressions of sympathy during this time of bereavement. Your thoughtful gestures have been greatly appreciated. We, the family, would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Harbor Hospice, Harbor Home Health (Ms. Galene Weems), and Synergy Home Health. We would like to extend a special expression of gratitude to his caregiver, Mrs. Brenda Sue Castille. We shall always cherish your kindness toward our Brother and Uncle. May God bless you in many ways.

Condolences

Yolanda "Nan" Johnson Avery March 23, 2021
Mr. James was one of the most brilliant men I have ever known. In growing up, I thought he was a walking encyclopedia ::) Thank you Mr. James for being you.
Galene Weems February 7, 2021
Mr Holmes was a very special person! Will always feel privileged getting to know him as well as his family! Thank you for allowing me to be part of his life !
Terri Kibbles January 21, 2021
JH is what we always called him... my uncle was a live wire at times but what I most remember about my uncle, he was brilliant and his mind was sharp right up to the end... gave me sound advice all of my life...and I’m gonna miss him so much... Rest easy JH see in the morning uncle.
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Services & Events

event Visitation

location_on Claybar Kelley-Watkins Funeral Home, 1155 North 11th Street, Beaumont, 77702
directions Get Directions
schedule Friday, January 22, 2021 at 10:00 AM

event Funeral Service

location_on Claybar Kelley-Watkins Funeral Home, 1155 North 11th Street, Beaumont, 77702
directions Get Directions
schedule Saturday, January 23, 2021 at 12:01 PM