Marvin Holmes, Jr. Obituary
Obituary published on Legacy.com by G. G. Woody Funeral Home, LLC on Jul. 2, 2025.
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Marvin Delvin St. Clair Holmes Jr., affectionately known as Mickey, was born on July 13, 1958, in Plainfield, New Jersey, the son of Lucille Alice Woody Holmes and Marvin Delvin St. Clair Holmes Sr. Mickey passed away on June 25, 2025, at the age of 66 in Newark, New Jersey. He was a cherished presence in the lives of his family, friends, and community. He was known for his integrity, warmth, love, and quiet strength.
Mickey's life was defined by his passions-for knowledge, travel, music, sports, and, above all, his family. During his youth, he played trumpet in the Plainfield High School marching band, nurturing a lifelong love of music and the arts. A proud graduate of Plainfield High School in 1976, Mickey continued his education at Ohio Wesleyan University and Delaware State, earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. His distinguished career spanned 25 years at Bell Laboratories, which later became Alcatel Lucent, where he earned the respect of colleagues not only through his professional expertise but through the kindness, mentorship, and calm presence he shared every day.
On July 1, 1989, he married the love of his life, Gwendolyn. Their union was celebrated and reaffirmed with vow renewal ceremonies every five years, honoring their enduring love and commitment. Together, they made each milestone anniversary a meaningful adventure: Hawaii for their 10th, Paris, France for their 15th, Brazil for their 20th, Honduras for their 25th, and Morocco for their 30th. Their love was a journey as much as a bond-rich with shared experiences, laughter, and memories.
In 2003, they welcomed their greatest joy-their daughter, Samayah-who completed their loving trio. As a family, they traveled across nearly all 50 states and explored the world, building a legacy rooted in curiosity, connection, and care.
Mickey was a devoted sports fan, faithfully cheering on the Dallas Cowboys, New York Mets, and Brooklyn Nets. A passionate bowler since childhood-playing alongside his father and brother, Barry-he maintained his love for the sport throughout his life. He also enjoyed reading news articles, grilling, attending concerts, and spending time with his loved ones.
Those who knew Mickey will remember him as a man of gentle strength, steady love, joy, and unwavering loyalty. He was sincere, dependable, and endlessly thoughtful-a source of peace and encouragement to those around him.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Gwendolyn; his daughter, Samayah F. Holmes; his brother, Barry K. Holmes Sr., and his wife Brandee; his sisters-in-law, Pricilla Morales, and her husband Reinaldo; and Jennie Lynn Jefferson. He also leaves behind nephews, Philip Quincy Jefferson, Barry K. Holmes Jr., Tyree Holmes, and Christopher Morales; nieces, TaNisha Francis, Shayala Adkins, Touri Holmes, and Victoria Morales; his mother-in-law, Dorothy E. Lathan Thiam; his uncle, James Holmes; and a host of great-nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
Mickey was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin Delvin St. Clair Holmes Sr. and Lucille Alice Woody Holmes.
He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered.