Gloria B. Holmes

Gloria Ballentine Holmes, 83, of Virginia Beach, Virginia, passed away peacefully on October 7, 2025, surrounded by her family.
Born on September 12, 1942, in Norfolk, Virginia, Gloria was the beloved daughter of Robert Linscott and Christine Augustson Ballentine.Gloria lived a life marked by compassion, dedication, and grace. She was a cherished wife, a loving mother, and a deeply committed community member. Her professional life reflected her passion for service: she was an educator, a Realtor, and a lifelong volunteer who touched countless lives with her warmth and kindness.
A proud graduate of Madison College (now James Madison University), Gloria began her teaching career at St. John's Parish Day School before joining the Howard County Public School System. Later, through her work with Homebound Services, she continued her mission to educate and uplift, working with children facing terminal illnesses. Her gentle spirit and unwavering empathy left a lasting impact on students, colleagues, and families alike.
Gloria selflessly gave to others through her years of volunteering at Sentara Leigh Hospital and assisting newly stationed military families find suitable housing in the area. She shared her passion for gardening and plants by creating beautiful floral arrangements for local churches. She lived her life providing countless acts of kindness to others.
Gloria was preceded in death by her beloved husband, David Wendell Holmes, and their firstborn son, David Linscott Holmes. She is survived by her loving children: James Thomas Holmes, Christine Holmes Armstrong, and Robert Wendell Holmes; her five adored grandchildren: Carleigh Spencer Armstrong, Creighton John Armstrong Jr., James Thomas Holmes Jr., Christian James Armstrong, and Corinne Paige Armstrong; and her devoted sister, Caroline Shives. She is also remembered fondly by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate home nurses who cared for Gloria with such love and dedication during long courageous fight with dementia.
Gloria's life was a testament to the power of love, kindness, and quiet strength. She will be profoundly missed and forever cherished.
A service to celebrate Gloria's life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, October 10, at Princess Anne Memorial Park, 1110 N. Great Neck Road, Virginia Beach, Virginia. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.hollomon-brown.com.