Joseph "Joey" Curtis Holmes

Joseph "Joey" Curtis Holmes December 1, 1982 – September 14, 2025.  With  deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Joseph “Joey” Curtis Holmes, who entered into heaven and the presence of His Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on September 14, 2025, at the age of 42. 

Joey was a devoted husband, loving father, cherished son, and loyal friend. Joey was married to Candace Lee Merchant, his partner in life and love, with whom he recently celebrated 20 years of marriage. He was a proud and devoted father to Skilar Squires, Alissa Holmes, Peyton Holmes, and Tristan Hobson—each of whom was the center of his world. His greatest joy and pride were his children. He was their toughest coach and their biggest cheerleader, always pushing them to be their best while celebrating every step of the journey.

Joey is survived by his beloved parents Harry Curtis Holmes and Linda Ivy Holmes. He is survived by his mother-in-law, Amy Lee Merchant, and brothers-in-law Lance Merchant (Heleena), Josh Merchant (Dru), and John Mikel Merchant, as well as his nephew and nieces. He is also survived by his uncles Jerry Holmes (Donna) and Michael Kuriger. He will be dearly missed by cousins Heather Kuriger, Margie Miles, Amber Holmes, and Connie Bond, who he called his sisters. 

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Harry Lindsey and Louise Holmes, and his maternal grandparents, Cleve and Bea Ivy; father-in-law, Reginald Lee Merchant and nephew, Reggie Lee Merchant. 

He spent many hours gardening or fishing at the side of his father and grandfathers. Their example of hard work, strength, and wisdom shaped the man he strived to be. 

He was also preceded in death by uncles David Ivy, Johnny Ivy and aunts Eula Hawkins and Brenda Kuriger.

Professionally, Joey was the Operations Manager at FabTek, where he led projects in the energy and food processing industries. He loved his work and his team, often referring to them as his second family. A master tradesman in metal fabrication for 24 years, Joey was deeply respected by his colleagues, customers, and vendors.Joey was a member of Crossroads Baptist Church, where his faith was lived out in service to his others. He will be remembered for his generosity and the way he made everyone feel like family. Whether he was cracking a joke, lending a hand, or simply showing up when it mattered most, Joey’s presence was a gift to all who knew him.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 17, at Ott and Lee Funeral Home in Morton, Mississippi. On Thursday, September 18, visitation will begin at 2:00 p.m. at Crossroads Baptist Church, followed by the funeral service at 3:00 p.m. Burial will take place immediately after in Crossroads Cemetery.Services will be officiated by Brother Paul Smith, Brother John Vaughn, and Brother Steven Platt. 

Pallbearers will be Shannon Moore, Matt King, Pat Warren, Justin Martin, Danny White, and Michael Murry. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Crossroads Baptist Church Building Fund..