Joseph Browning Holmes Jr.

Joseph "Bo" Browning Holmes, Jr., a beloved father, husband, brother, and cherished member of his community, passed away peacefully in the morning on June 20, 2025, in Gadsden, Alabama. He was born in Signal Mountain, Tennessee, on June 15, 1949 and lived in the Indian Springs community since 1981. Bo was 76 years old.

A Vietnam Veteran, Bo served his country with honor, earning numerous commendations for his service. After returning home from duty, he pursued higher education, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, a testament to his lifelong commitment to learning and intellectual curiosity.

For many years, Bo was a dedicated small business owner, operating a local hardware store where he was known for his hard work and his willingness to help anyone who walked through his doors. Beyond his professional life, Bo was a man of diverse passions. He was an avid reader, constantly seeking new knowledge, and truly never stopped learning. His love for wildlife was evident to all who knew him, and he found joy in the intricate crafts of woodworking and tinkering, always ready to explore how things worked. A true history buff, Bo possessed a remarkable depth of knowledge, often surprising others with his insights.

Bo's greatest joys came from his family and his pets. He shared a beautiful and enduring marriage of 44 years with his beloved wife, Linda Black Holmes, who preceded him in death. He was a truly amazing father, husband, and brother, always putting his loved ones first.

Bo was preceded in death by his wife, Linda Black Holmes; his sister, Judith Holmes Green (Bill); his father, Joseph Browning Holmes Sr.; his mother, Willa McLendon Holmes; and his nephew, William "Dutch" Green.

He is survived by his loving daughter, Valerie Holmes Baker; son-in-law David Allen Baker; his cherished granddaughter, Callie Denise Baker; his sister, Jane Holmes Harris and her husband Hal; his niece, Susan Harris Brown (Mark); his nephews, Jason Green (Leslee), Mills Harris (Lauren), and his brother-in-law, (who was more like a brother), Bill Green.

It is a testament to his character that he remained in touch with his fellow soldiers in the Army and members of his Company.

Bo will be quietly laid to rest with military honors at the National Cemetery in Montevallo, Alabama.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Bo's memory to your favorite animal charity or veterans charity, causes that were deeply meaningful to him.