John Gayle Holmes

Our beloved brother, John Gayle Holmes, was called Home on August 14, 2025. He was 75 years of age at the time of his death. He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Betty Williams Holmes, and his younger brother, Daryle. John is survived by his siblings, Michael, Terry and Peter, and many relatives, cousins, nieces, nephews and other loving friends.

John was born on July 29, 1950, in Columbus, Ohio. He grew up in the almost-idyllic development of Lucy Depp Park Addition near Powell, Ohio. After attending Jerome Elementary School, he graduated from Dublin High School with the Class of 1968.

As a gifted artist, linguist and athlete, he enlisted in the United States Air Force. Following Basic training, John's linguistic talents led him to be selected to attend the prestigious Defense Languages Institute at the Presidio in Monterey, California. Upon graduating from Intensive instruction in Mandarin Chinese, John flew on several missions into China. He translated, in real time, messages and intelligence intercepted from enemy transmissions. His actions and training led to his being awarded the Air Medal.

John was injured during a raid on the air base where he was serving, sustaining a life-long disability. Upon discharge, he attended the Columbus College of Art & Design and Ohio Wesleyan University. John continued his life-long passion for art and learning foreign languages, often reading his Spanish-language Bible.

Please join John's family on September 28, 2025 from 2:00pm to 4:00pm to celebrate his life and Home-going. We'll meet at the Concord Township Community Building, 6385 Home Road in Delaware County.

Please come as you are, with a fond memory of John and gratitude for all who serve.