Benny Lewis Holmes, 85 went to be with his Lord and Savior on Thursday, June 29, 2023 in Chesapeake, Virginia. He was born in a barn in Coats, North Carolina on August 9, 1937 to John and Leddie Holmes (Nee) Byrd. Benny proudly and faithfully served in the United States Navy for 23 years as an Air Traffic Controller. He went on to work in Civil Service, retiring after 20 years.
In line with his giving spirit, Benny volunteered at Sentara Leigh Hospital in the Emergency Room Department for countless hours. He also gave an astounding 12 gallons of blood by way of the American Red Cross. Benny also served as a dedicated Head Deacon for over 30 years at Mission Church in Virginia Beach. In his spare time, he thoroughly enjoyed golfing, watching the Yankees and the Tarheels, and spending time with his family.
In addition to his parents, Benny was preceded in death by his brothers, Fred and Stacy.
Left to cherish his memory are his wife just shy of 63 years, Carol; children, Debbie (Jee), Danny (Vonda), and Brenda; grandchildren, Stephanie (Jason), Eric (Jessi), Jake (Jenn Ling), Jonathan (Ami), Miranda (Brandon), Skylar (Jezelle), and Kaylee (Eddie); great-grandchildren, Addison, Cambria, Roth Jacob “RJ”, Reese, Bex, Luna, Charlotte and Sammi as well as his two brothers Devon (Frances) and Jackie, several nieces, nephews, extended family members and dear friends.
A celebration of Benny’s life will be held on Wednesday, July 5, 2023 at 11:00 am in Mission Church, 210 Witchduck Rd. in Virginia Beach. Colorful attire is encouraged. The family will receive friends 90 minutes prior to the start of the service. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions to Mission Church Building Fund may be made in Benny’s name by CLICKING HERE. Condolences may be left for the family below.
IN THE EVENT THAT THERE ARE CONNECTIVITY ISSUES DURING THE LIVESTREAM, A RECORDING WILL BE AVAILABLE AFTER THE SERVICE HAS CONCLUDED.
Carol and family,
You know how much I adored Benny! He was a Church Dad to me. He was the true governing force in our church. He was always there us all. We could always depend on Benny. I know he was there for the many dramas my family had, and gave us comfort when my sister and brothers passed away. He tirelessly served the Lord with dedication and heart. I will never forget him. You both will always be in my heart as family❤️. We WILL meet at the gate!
My deepest sympathy and condolences to Mrs Carol and the Holmes family. I’m sorry I was not able to be there today due to work obligations. Praying for God’s comfort and peace to surround you during this difficult time. Mission church (VBFWBC) will not be the same without Brother Benny.
Benny was a true class act, always there with a joke and a smile! He loved Jesus, his family and his church with his whole heart! I’ll never forget the laughs we shared when he was trying to crack jokes in choir. Sorry we missed the service, we are out of town. Prayers lifted for Carol and the family and all who know and love Benny! ❤️
We’re so sad that we could not be in VB for Benny’s celebration of life. We have such great memories…Carol and family, please know that we love you, and are praying for you during this time.💕
Praying for Sister Carol and family. So sorry I could not get off work to come.
My heart and prayers are with each family member and our Church family. Brother Bennie you are already missed. Looking forward to seeing you again in that land where we’ll never grow old!!
May the love of God surround you and your family during this difficult time,
May you come to know that the love of God is with you always,
May your memories of Benny Lewis Holmes, give you peace, comfort and strength…
Rest now in the arms of our Lord your mission on earth is complete.
I thank you for your service to our Country and my Freedom. You will not be forgotten.
My thoughts
and prayers to the family of ….
US Navy Veteran, Benny Lewis Holmes, is “A True American Hero” God Bless†
† Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. John 15:13 †
To the Holmes Family, words cannot describe how sorry I am for your loss I can’t imagine your pain and grief at this time. I loved Benny from the first day I met him. It was my pleasure to know him. May God watch over your family.
We send our condolences to the Holmes family. Benny was a good and faithful servant to those who new him. Benny was a gentle giant and he will be missed.
I would like to extend my most heartfelt condolences to the Holmes Family. May God cover and protect you as you grieve the loss of Mr. Benny.