Obituary of Gary Wayne "Big Chief" Holmes

Gary Wayne Holmes, age 60 of Clarks, LA, passed from this life on October 23, 2018; his wife, Phyllis, was with him when he left this world. Gary “Big Chief” Holmes was born on July 18, 1958, to the union of his parents, Lewis Morrow Holmes and Jimmie Layne Prudhomme Holmes. He was preceded in death by his parents and his two brothers, Michael Holmes and Lynn Holmes.

Left to cherish a lifetime of memories is his beloved wife of thirty-seven years Phyllis Holmes of Clarks; two sons: Brandon Holmes and wife Jennifer of Lake Charles; Jonathan Holmes and wife Kristen of Clarks; his daughter: Abigail Holmes Goss and husband Chad of Lafayette; his sister: Lisa Holmes Anderson and husband Mac of West Monroe; and his grandchildren who were one of the brightest lights in his life: Phillip Holmes, Margaret Holmes, Eleanor Holmes, Harper Goss, Quinn Goss and Jarrett Holmes.

Gary was a member of Old Bethel Baptist Church. He was a Mason and a member of the Eastern Star. He was a charter member of the Clarks Volunteer Fire Department. He retired as a Chief Engineer after 33 years at Canal Barge. He had a passion for serving. He was always willing to use his time or tools to help others, no matter the place nor the time. He was a respected coworker who was always willing to share his knowledge with others.

Gary’s homecoming celebration will be held 11:00 AM Saturday October 27, 2018 at the sanctuary of Old Bethel Baptist Church. Rev. Steven Laughlin and Bro. Glynn Adams will be officiating. Burial will follow in the Old Bethel Cemetery at Clarks with services entrusted to Riser & Son Funeral Home of Columbia. Visitation will be at the church on Friday October 26, 2018 from 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM.

Serving as pallbearers will be Steven Thibodeaux, John “Pug” Hintson, Doug Stamper, Tracey Pauley, Jim Wallace and Kevin Thompson. Honorary pallbearers include Mike Cook, John Reitzell, Elbert Lee Pauley, John Foy, and Pam Doffitt.