Charlene H. Holmes

Charlene H. Holmes, 79, of Washington, DC, peacefully entered eternal rest on Tuesday, August 26, 2025.

Charlene was born on March 16, 1946, in Washington, DC, the third oldest child of the late Charles and Genet Heiligh. She accepted Christ at an early age and later joined her mother at Greater People's Union Baptist Church in Washington, DC, where she remained a faithful member until her health no longer allowed her to attend in person. Her faith was the foundation of her life-guiding her steps, strengthening her spirit, and shining through even in her darkest and weakest moments.

Charlene graduated from Margaret Mary Washington Vocational School in Washington, DC, before pursuing her passion for nursing at Washington Technical College (now the University of the District of Columbia). After earning her nursing degree, she began her career at Washington Hospital Center and soon moved to Freedmen's Hospital (now Howard University Hospital), where she devoted over 40 years to caring for others until retiring in June 2010.

In November 1968, Charlene married the late Ernest Holmes in Prince George's County, MD. From this union, she was blessed with her beloved daughter, Paula.

Charlene was also a member of Chi Eta Phi Sorority, Inc., a professional organization for nurses, representing many cultures and ethnic backgrounds.

Charlene loved knitting, reading the newspaper, working on crossword puzzles, and listening to hymns and gospel music, especially quartets such as Lee Williams and The Canton Spirituals. She also enjoyed watching her game shows: The Price is Right, Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune. We cannot forget about her daily dose of The Young and The Restless and the Bold and Beautiful.

In 1993, Charlene's faith was tested when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Yet, with unshakable strength, dignity, and prayer, she triumphed over the disease and became a proud 32-year survivor. She continued to live each day as a testimony to God's grace, His healing power and prayer - "Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." James KJV

To her family and friends, Charlene was known for her wisdom, strength, and unwavering love. Stern yet compassionate, she always encouraged those around her to give their best. Her legacy is one of faith, perseverance, and unconditional love.

Above all else, Charlene's most treasured accomplishment was her daughter, Paula. From the moment Paula was born, Charlene devoted her heart and soul to being the best mother she could be. She often shared with friends, family, and even strangers just how proud she was of her daughter's achievements, her strength, and the woman she had become. Paula was the light of her life, and Charlene never missed an opportunity to lift her up, support her, and celebrate her. Their bond was unbreakable, marked by love, encouragement, and deep respect. That love only grew when Paula blessed her with two grandchildren, Marvin and Chartese. Being a grandmother was one of the greatest joys of her life. She played an instrumental role in their upbringing-helping Paula guide them into adulthood with faith, wisdom, and love. Her pride in her daughter and grandchildren was evident to everyone who knew her, and it will forever remain one of the brightest parts of her legacy.

Charlene's life was an example of faith living boldly. She often expressed gratitude to the Lord with the simple but powerful words, "Thank You, Lord!" She was truly the foundation and the link that bound her family together. Taking on the role as the matriarch, she proudly became the champion for her siblings' children, always ready to offer wisdom, support, and guidance. Her advice may not always have been what you expected, but it was always what you needed.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Genet Heiligh; husband – Ernest H. Holmes; four brothers - Nathaniel, David, Ronald (Mutch), and Charles Jr., five sisters – Robin, JoAnne, Georgette, Doris, and Henrietta.

Charlene leaves to cherish her memory her loving and devoted daughter: Paula H. Best; grandchildren: Marvin and Chartese Best; sisters: Linda Fulwood and Paulette Bentford; brothers: John Johnson and Carl Bentford; sisters-in-law: Elaine Heiligh and Carla Bentford; countless nieces and nephews; and a host of friends

To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.

2 Corinthians 5:8