Floyd Benjamin Holmes, 85, entered into rest peacefully at home on October 23, 2024, surrounded by the love of his family. A graveside service will be held Sunday afternoon, October 27, 2024 at 2 o'clock in the Holmes Family Cemetery, with Tim Sanders presiding. Following the service, family and friends are invited to gather at the graveside to celebrate his life.

Born on December 15, 1938, Floyd was the tenth of eleven children born to the late James Lewis and Emmie Francis Holmes. He grew up on the family farm in the Redhill community of Edgefield, SC, where he attended and played football for Old Edgefield High School, graduating in 1956. His early experiences instilled in him a lasting commitment to community and a robust work ethic that stayed with him over the course of his life.

Floyd's journey took him to Illinois, where he began a lifelong career hanging drywall alongside his brother, James. It was there that he met the love of his life, Ethel Jean Gordy. Floyd and Jean married in 1958, the start of a family that would bring him life-long joy. Eventually, Floyd returned to Edgefield, SC, where he spent the rest of his days, nurturing his roots, raising family, and serving his community.

As an avid hunter, Floyd found real peace and happiness in outdoor sports, competing in coon and bird hunting events. He dedicated many weekends to field trials and high school rodeos, sharing his passion with his family and friends along the way.

Floyd was a proud member of the Masonic Lodge, serving in the Ancient Free Masons and the Scottish Rite, and he was actively involved with the Shriners for many years. Floyd was also a founding member of the Junior League High School Rodeo, a member of the Redhill Coon Dog Club, and a member of the Sons of the Confederate Veterans.

Floyd was not only a hard worker and provider for his family, but he left an indelible mark on his community and welcomed all, ready to lend a helping hand to anyone who needed it.

Above all, Floyd cherished his family, celebrating 66 years of marriage with his beloved wife. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, his legacy of love, generosity, and kindness remains in the hearts of those who knew him.

In addition to his parents, Floyd was preceded in death by six sisters, two brothers, and his beloved son, Philip Frederick Holmes. He is survived by his devoted wife, Ethel Jean Holmes; a son, Floyd Allen Holmes; his daughter, Valerie Holmes C'deBaca (George); and two sisters, Ethel Bussey Mear and Carolyn Doolittle (Jojo). Floyd's legacy lives on through his eight grandchildren: Vaughn Holmes, Lauryn Gable (Dusty), Chelsey Holmes, Olivia C'deBaca, Gabrielle C'deBaca, Brandon Holmes, Nicholas Holmes, and Kelli Holmes; as well as nine great-grandchildren: Silas Holmes, Jaxon Gable, Isabelle Holmes, James Holmes, Hannah Holmes, Bentley Holmes, Ryan Holmes, Colin Holmes, and Noah Holmes.

As we gather to honor Floyd's memory, we reflect on a life well-lived, filled with love and a steadfast commitment to family and community. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

The Holmes Family Cemetery's driveway is located beside 595 Key Road Edgefield, SC.