William Holmes

"The Captain"

On March 1, 2026, at 6:03 a.m., the Lord sent His angel to welcome His faithful servant from labor to rest and into the great family reunion of heaven. On that day, we said goodbye to a beloved pillar of our family, a generous and humble man of God, William Holmes, affectionately known by many as "The Captain" and lovingly called "Hally."

William was born on September 4, 1933, in Burlington, New Jersey. From an early age, he received his education in the Burlington County School System and accepted the Lord at a young age. He quickly learned the value of hard work. As a young boy, he spent time picking blueberries, learning lessons of diligence and responsibility that remained with him throughout his life.

William later answered the call to serve his country and proudly served in the United States Air Force for four years, demonstrating the discipline, courage, and commitment that would characterize his life. Following his military service, he worked at U.S. Coco for approximately 10 years until the company closed. He later began working at Cadillac Dog Food, where he remained a dedicated employee for over 30 years, known for his strong work ethic and reliability.

In the early 1980s, Hally rededicated his life to the Lord at First Christ's Way Church under the leadership of Pastor Derek Cooper, reaffirming his commitment to walk faithfully with God. In 1984, he married the love of his life, Sidney Holmes, and through their union he lovingly embraced five stepchildren, building a family grounded in love, faith, and unity.

William lived a life marked by an adventurous spirit, a wonderful sense of humor, and a heart devoted to serving others.

He found joy in life's simple pleasures. He loved the thrill of bike riding, the peace and quiet of fishing, and capturing memories through photography. He also took great pride in cooking, especially when barbecuing. Family and friends fondly remember his famous secret ham recipe and his legendary 5 a.m. rib recipe. His love for flea markets reflected his adventurous nature, always searching for hidden treasures.

A sharply dressed gentleman, William believed that "early was on time and on time was late." He was known for arriving before time, demonstrating his commitment, discipline, and respect for others. His joyful personality and quick wit often filled the room with laughter.

Beyond these passions, William found his greatest fulfillment in his relationship with God, his love for family, and his dedication to serving his church community. He was an avid reader of the Bible and a faithful servant at Antioch Baptist Church, where he served for more than 30 years under the leadership of Pastor John O. Parker as a Sunday School teacher, trustee, and deacon. He faithfully drove the church van, taught the New Members Class, and assisted in helping others grow in their walk with Christ.

William was also a graduate of CMI Bible School, and he frequently shared wisdom and encouragement from the Word of God.

His life beautifully reflects the words of Matthew 5:16:

"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven."

William's light shined brightly through his service, kindness, and unwavering faith.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Sidney Holmes; his son, Mark Torain; and a host of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and friends who will forever treasure his legacy.

He was preceded in death by his father, Woodroe Holmes; his mother, Lavada Hall; his aunt/sister, Martha Hudson; his siblings Janie, Jesse, Caroline, Viola, Claude, Henry, Sylvester, Alberta, Ada, and James; and his beloved children Diana, Brenda, and Deborah.

William Holmes leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, love, and laughter that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.