James Willis Holmes

James Willis Holmes “Sonny” was full of life and well known in his community. He was the life of the party and continued to display a sense of humor - even after his health declined. He was a proud man and fought to maintain his independence even unto death. However, on the morning of November 8, 2021, the Lord called him home at age 82.

Sonny was born to the late Cleo and James C. Holmes on August 10, 1939. During his early life, he attended ­­­­­­A.L. Corbett , Aiken County Public School. He later worked at Savannah River Plant for 30 years. Sonny also was a member of Friendship Baptist Church and served as a faithful Gethsemane member. 

In addition, Sonny was a huge sports fan and loved baseball. He was a lifelong Dodgers fan and even played recreational baseball like a professional! First Base was his position. He had an advantage due to his height and could catch a ball at any speed or direction, high or low. Due to his tall stature and skills on the diamond, he earned the nickname "Dusty." Sonny also acted as an unofficial neighborhood watch. He did not mind reporting suspicious activity in the neighborhood.

Mr. J.W. Holmes was preceded in death by his parents, brothers (J.C. and Leroy Holmes), sisters (Bernice Holmes and Gracie Samuel), and aunt (Elease Holmes Tyler). He leaves behind his Godbrother (Johnny Stroman), nieces (Beatrice Holmes, Marilyn Gilley (Stanley), Alecia "Lisa" Samuel, Michelle Samuel, Angela Samuel), best friend (Marion Millhouse), cousins (Grace Hancook, Rev. Estelle Sally Hammond and Albert Hammond), and a host of relatives, great/grand-nieces & nephews, cousins & friends.

Moreover, the family would like to acknowledge and thank Mr. Wade Friday Sr. for helping to assist Uncle Sonny in every way possible. Also, thanks to Mr. Louis Samuel for running errands. Finally, thanks to the Swedenburg girls for housekeeping and laundry.

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