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Ella Holmes Obituary
Born: March 19, 1917.
Died: Aug. 29, 2008.
Survivors: sister-in-law Bertha James; nieces Lynnette Hardy, Tyeisha James, Alexis James, Pamela James, Loretta Morris, Stacy Graham; nephews Deontrey James, Larry James, Warren Morris.
Services: Wake 3-8 p.m. today with family receiving friends 6-7 p.m. at Creal Funeral Home, 1940 Seventh Ave. S. Funeral at 10 a.m. Thursday at St. Peter's Episcopal Cathedral, 104 Fourth St. N., St. Petersburg.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Ella Holmes
John DiMura
August 27, 2024
Miss Mae is one of those rare people that write words on your heart. She comes in my mind frequently. I know that she is without sadness in glory.
In remembrance
John DiMura
John DiMura
September 23, 2019
I knew miss Mae for many years. She would always come to my mothers women's shop and I would see her. She was an avid supporter of the orchestra and was responsible for bringing underprivileged children to concerts. She was a great woman and I always admired her great faith in God. I miss her but some day we will meet again in glory!
Betty Scarborough
September 17, 2008
Miss Mae was one of my most treasured friends. I was proud to have her call me her baby sister and honored that she loved me so much.
It wil be hard to not turn on 22nd Ave S on our way to Florida Orchestra or to church or to Opera Guild or to any kind of musical event. It will be hard not to drive up in the driveway at 216 23rd Ave SE and have her come out the door dressed to the nines with one of her spectacular hats on.
I will miss going to the Chattaway for lunch after church each Sunday, I will miss her wonderful smile, her wit, her charity and her absolute dedication to all children they were truly precious in her sight and she never stopped fighting for their future in education and appreciation for the finer things such as art and especially music.
There will be such a huge void in my life and in Roberta's life without her presence. It was a priviledge to know her and love her, she lived life on her own terms.
I can see her in heaven now, organizing the children and singing in the heavenly choir. God bless you my big sister, I will miss you.
Dolorita Cooper
September 10, 2008
We are so sorry to hear of the loss of the beloved Ella Mary Holmes. She lived such a wonderful life and was such a shining example to us all. We are proud that she was a part of the Holmes and Cooper families. God is blessing her now.
~Mary & Atonjular Grier~
September 9, 2008
May the Blessings of The Most High be upon the family of Mother Ella Mary Holmes; may the Power of HIS might give you strength to endure.
There is a Whirlwind of Love that now transcends the Spirit of Mother Holmes throughout the universe. When it blows, we will feel her Spirit of Generosity and Goodwill as a reminder to take the opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of the least of these HIS children.
Mother Holmes was once the neighbor of my brother, the late Shimon Grier, and my sister-in-law Ava Kemp- Grier for a number of years.
When my dad, the late Arthur Grier, and my mom Mary made their first trip to St. Pete twenty something years ago to visit, they were introduced to Mother Holmes. From that very day, Mother Holmes established a bond with our family. She would remind my mom that Shimon was HER son. My mom, Mary, and Mother Holmes were endearing to each other and enjoyed spending time just talking and keeping each other company every time my mom would visit St. Pete.
I last spoke with Mother Holmes shortly after the passing of my dad in April of this year. I could feel her sincere compassion, over the telephone, for the loss of both my brother and my dad who passed away within the span of three months.
Mother Holmes shared her Expression of Love with us throughout the years calling to see how everyone is doing, often sending cards and cases full of fruit.
I will miss the pleasure of "sitting at her feet" gaining wisdom and knowledge, in conversation with her via the telephone, but will forever be inspired by the example of her life to help somebody as I pass along.
We Thank God for having given us Mother Ella Mary Holmes.
~The Family of The Late Shimon Grier~
ava kemp-grier
September 5, 2008
God bless the family of Ma Holmes as my husband and I so affectionately called her.She was there for me when I lost my husband, Shimon Grier, and my father-in-law Mr.Grier, both this year.I know that both will welcome her in heaven.To the family I offer my prayers.You have lost a kind and gentle soul. She was fiesty with a heart. I will miss her.
Ava Kemp-Grier
Atlanta,Ga/St.Petersburg,Fl.
Sandra & Jim Irvin
September 4, 2008
As residents of the Old Southeast, we looked forward to seeing Mrs. Holmes at our neighborhood general meetings from time to time. Her elegance and energy, her warm smile and sparkling personality, her "always seeking the teachable moment" made her a delight to all who knew her. She will be sadly missed, but she has left a wondrous, indelible mark on her community. With deepest respect and sympathy...
Nancy Leighton
September 4, 2008
Miss Mae was one of the most special people I have ever known.
It was such a privilege to have been able to participate in the musical education of her "children" by providing orchestra tickets for them, and donuts, too! I'll never forget the day the whole class trouped backstage to meet Maestro Wilkins...a highlight, to be sure!
Her spirit will live on for all of us who knew her, every time we hear glorious music, or see a terrific hat!
Mary and Barry Howe
September 4, 2008
Our deepest condolences to Mae's family. She deeply touched our lives during our years in St. Pete and continued to bless us with her friendship and gifts of oranges and her own sunshine in years that have followed. We shall be with you in spirit during her service this day at the cathedral she loved and supported so strongly. She is a legendary woman who made a difference in countless lives. We give thanks for her life and now for her new life with her Lord.
John & Lewis Wright
September 3, 2008
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Tamond&T'Errah Wright
September 3, 2008
In My Pocket
I have memories in my pocket.
They rattle among the change.
My memories of you are treasures I carry wherever I go.
They are stored in bits and pieces, parts of a beautiful whole
They give me comfort when I think I am alone.
Yes, I have memories in my pocket, like so much other stuff I keep there.
But of all the treasures I have, it’s the memories of you that are the most precious.
Maxine Feazell
September 3, 2008
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well-lived.
Sandra Bryant
September 3, 2008
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help at this time.
Tammye Wright-Miller
September 3, 2008
To Lynnett and Family; Sorry for your loss, She was my principal at Euclid from the Northside then became my neighbor on the Southeast side of time, We would miss her in the streets and her beautiful yard. Love Always... Tammye,Bo. Lewis.Tamond, T'Errah and Emmanuel
Tammye Wright-Miller
September 3, 2008
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
annie jones
September 3, 2008
To Lynn and family - May God's spirit comfort and keep you - Know that the works Mrs. Holmes did will not be forgotten
Annie (Ann) Jones - class of '67
Alphonso Campbell
September 2, 2008
It is with the deepest sadness that I extend condolences from my family. The contributions she and her family made to the St. Petersburg community are legendary and will endure.
Norah Roberts
September 2, 2008
I grew up on the street where Mrs. Holmes lived. Everytime she saw us kids (now adults) playing in the street she would say hello and make sure we were behaving ourselves! She was always very kind and caring. My thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time. 23rd Ave SE will never be the same.
Willie and Mary Thigpen
September 2, 2008
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Sheila Ann Lamb
September 2, 2008
When I am dead, my dearest
When I am dead, my dearest,
Sing no sad songs for me;
Plant thou no roses at my head,
Nor shady cypress tree:
Be the green grass above me
With showers and dewdrops wet;
And if thou wilt, remember,
And if thou wilt, forget.
I shall not see the shadows,
I shall not feel the rain;
I shall not hear the nightingale
Sing on, as if in pain:
And dreaming through the twilight
That doth not rise nor set,
Haply I may remember,
And haply may forget.
By Christina Rossetti
The Poetry Foundation
Emory Wright
September 2, 2008
You lived a long, good life, you made a big difference. Many are better because of you. May you rest in peace.
Creal Funeral Home Seventh Avenue Chapel
September 2, 2008
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
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