Barry Wayne Holmes

Celebration of Life for Barry W. Holmes
October 2, 1959 -October 16, 2025
"Gained his Heavenly Harley"
Barry W. Holmes gained his Heavenly Harley on October 16, 2025, surrounded by loved ones and friends after a short but courageous battle with Urothelial Cancer. Barry was born on October 2, 1959, in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, the oldest son of Tommy W. Holmes and Elizabeth Lonsdale Cornish. In 1970, the family planted roots in Alvarado, Texas, where Barry grew up. Before graduating from Alvarado High School in 1978, Barry experienced two life-changing moments meeting the love of his life, Crystal Day, and joining the United States Air Force, which he proudly served until 1982, receiving an Honorable Discharge. After returning home, Barry and Crystal were married on April 20, 1984. They made their home in Alvarado until moving to Grandview in 1987 with their daughter Cassidy. It was there that Barry joined the Grandview Volunteer Fire Department, serving his community with dedication and pride.
A Life of Hard Work and Heart
Barry's time in the Air Force taught him a great work ethic whether on the job or working on a hobby, he never left anything unfinished. He began his career at Chapparal Steel in 1983, working there until 1998. After a short time with Thomas Conveyors in Burleson, Barry returned to Chapparal (now Gerdau) in 2003. He proudly worked there for nearly 38 years, earning the respect of countless coworkers who knew him as "Opossum" or "the old guy who could work circles around the young ones." In July 2025, Barry had chosen his retirement date, and he and Crystal were already making plans for their next great adventure together.
Enjoying the Ride
Barry loved life building hot rods with his buddies, hunting and fishing with Crystal and Cassidy, and working with Cassidy to restore her first car, a bright yellow 1972 "Tweety Bird" Mustang. H enjoyed hanging under the carport with friends, motorcycle rides along Route 66, Christmas toy runs, and sitting on the tailgate with neighbors watching the traffic go by. If you ever wanted to hear a good story, you just had to ask about the "Old Green Truck" and the many nights of street racing on Nike Base Road.
Family and Legacy
Barry is survived by his loving wife Crystal, daughter Cassidy, and son-in-law Chad Neal of Alvarado; his beloved grandson "Little Man" Bishop Neal; his mother Elizabeth Cornish; sister Brigeen Crisp of Grandview; brother Tommy Holmes and wife Shelli of Joplin, Missouri; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father Tommy W. Holmes and brother Keith Holmes.
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