LEXINGTON: Joe Holmes’ love and devotion to his family, especially as a dad and husband, was sacrificial and filled with grace. He really did place his family above his own needs. Joseph Edward Holmes, 75, of Mansfield passed away Friday, December 27, 2024 in OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital following an extended illness.
The son of Lola Williams, Joe was born in Beckley, West Virginia on December 7, 1949. After high school, he proudly served his country in the United States Navy. Joe was extremely patriotic. He loved his country and often decorated with American flags.
He married Judith Kegley and the two resided in Mansfield where they raised their family. Joe’s mission and focus in life was to provide, serve and love his family. Joe worked tirelessly to provide for his children and raise them in a godly way. He would never hesitate to support and stand up for his children. He lived like Jesus, expressing unconditional love. Even after a long day at work, his kids always made it to karate practice, school events and he made sure his family was at church on Sunday mornings. His dedication and love extended to his grandchildren as he would drive (sometimes multiple times) his grandkids to church. He never missed the opportunity to see his grandchildren. They could always bring him a spark of energy.
He had a love of muscle cars which he also restored. A few included his Chevy Nova and Monte Carlo. He had many more over the years. Joe was drawn to the sound of a roaring engine and the thrill of powerful acceleration. Just recently, a few weeks ago, he was able to feel that power as a passenger in a sports car, riding alongside his daughter and her significant other. To no surprise, and as much as he loved his cars, he would sell them in a heartbeat if his family needed assistance.
Joe was easy going. If he sensed that times were tense, he’d try to lighten the moment with his humor. It was another way of serving his children. His playful expressions will be remembered and repeated by his children and grandchildren. A few of his expressions of love were, “Kiss a Pig” and “You Cotton Picker” or “That Cotton Picken Thing”!
Somehow he found time to journal. Joe would describe the day’s events in detail. He faithfully attended Apostolic Faith Assembly in Mansfield. Joe was a pillar of security, love and grace for his family.
He is survived by his wife Judith Holmes; children Rachel (Stuart) Smith of Mansfield, Michelle Iley (Earnest Edwards) of Mansfield, Joe Holmes of Mansfield, and Crystal Holmes (Jeffery Barker) of Mansfield; grandchildren Haylee, Stuart, Jasmine, Anna, Isabella, Travis, Garrett, Corey, Zach, Lilith, James, Brooke, Joshua, Marcus, Kamden and Nevaeh; as well as several great-grandchildren; siblings Belinda and Kenny Smith, Vickie and Bob Matteo; sister-in-law Melissa Williams; as well as numerous extended family.
Along with his parents he was preceded in death by his daughter Sherry Holmes; and brothers James R. “Dickie” Williams and Ricky D. Williams.
Funeral services celebrating the life of Joseph Holmes will be announced shortly.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to assist her family with funeral expenses. Please make checks payable to: Snyder Funeral Homes.
Online condolences may be made by visiting:SnyderFuneralHomes.com
Funeral Home: Snyder
Website: https://www.snyderfuneralhomes.com/obituaries/Joseph-Edward-Holmes?obId=34257259
