Jannie Louise Holmes

Jannie Louise Holmes was born March 6th, 1934, in Camden, South Carolina, to the late James and Nellie Pickett. She departed this life on September 10, 2024, at Overlook Medical Center in Summit, NJ.  Jannie was preceded by one son, Timothy Holmes, and nine siblings: Rozena Pickett, Ida Pickett Thomas, Hattie Stuckey, James Pickett Jr., John Pickett, Carrie Brisbon, Steven Pickett, Bennie Pickett, and Frank Pickett.

Jannie received her education at St Matthews High School in Boykin, South Carolina, with a High School Diploma. 

Jannie was united in marriage on July 8th, 1956, to David Holmes, Sr., and they had 3 boys from this union.  Jannie and David moved from South Carolina to Elizabeth, New Jersey, where she began working at Esselite Pendaflex and Boorum and Pease as an order processor and a forklift driver.  After 20 years, Jannie changed careers and began employment at the Visting Homemaker Company and then the Jewish Family Service, where she worked for 35 years in the healthcare Industry.

Jannie was not just a healthcare professional but a compassionate caregiver. She specialized in caring for clients with Dementia, Autism, and Down syndrome, often going above and beyond by preparing homecooked meals for them. Her southern hospitality and personal touch were evident in her work, demonstrating her commitment and compassion.

Jannie's faith was a cornerstone of her life. She accepted Jesus as her savior at an early age and remained steadfast in her devotion. Her spiritual journey began at the St John Baptist Church in Camden, SC, under the late Rev. Boykin, and continued when she and David relocated to Roselle, New Jersey. There, she found a new church home at the Guiding Star United Holiness Church in Roselle, NJ, under the late Bishop Elijah Holmes. Her faith was not just a part of her life, but a guiding force that influenced her actions and relationships. 

Jannie was a devoted mother who taught her children the things of God. She also taught her boys that cooking, cleaning, and laundry aren’t just women’s work; they’re Life Skills.

Jannie's love and affection extended beyond her professional life.  She is survived by her beloved husband of 68 years, David L. Holmes, Sr. (known as Country Dave), and her sisters, Queen Elizabeth Holmes and Bernice Martin. 

Her two sons, David Holmes, Jr. of South Plainfield, NJ, and Darrell Holmes of Charlotte, NC, cherish her legacy of love and care. Her influence also lives on through her three beloved daughters-in-law, Camille, Bridget, and Aletha, and her seven grandchildren, David 3rd, Alisha Holmes-Lebron, Phylicia, Summer, Sidnee, Simeon, Trinity, and her great-grandson, Justin.  A host of nieces, nephews, and other family members also hold her memory dear.