Phyllis Ann Willard Holmes, 63, passed away at her home in Abbeville, Miss., on Monday, Jan. 6, 2020. 

The funeral service will be held Thursday, Jan. 9, 2020, at 11 a.m. in the Chapel of Waller Funeral Home with Rev. Randy Hope officiating. Burial will follow in Oxford Memorial Cemetery. The visitation will be held Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2020, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. in West Hall at Waller Funeral Home.

 

Born in Oxford, Miss., to the late Freeman and Lynda Franklin Willard, Mrs. Holmes was a member of First Baptist Church of Abbeville where she served in the children’s ministry. She greatly enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren, as well as family beach vacations. Phyllis retired from the University of Mississippi as supervisor of the central storeroom. 

After becoming disabled, she found great joy in growing zinnias and delivering bouquets to her neighbors and friends on her “Gator.” Her beautiful smile was contagious and an inspiration to so many.

Phyllis is survived by her husband of 44 years, Alton “Skip” Holmes, of Abbeville; daughters, Michele Holt (Scott), of Oxford and Kim Holmes, of Oxford; son, John Holmes (Anna), of New Albany, Miss., and five grandchildren, John Randle and Davis Holt, Burkley, Briton, and Blake Holmes.

Memorial contributions in Mrs. Holmes’ memory may be made to The Gideon Memorial Bible Chairman, P.O. Box 140800, Nashville, TN 37214 or First Baptist Church of Abbeville Playground Fund, P.O. Box 80 Abbeville, MS 38601.

For additional information or to leave an online condolence, please call 662.234.7971 or visit www.wallerfuneralhome.com.