Woodrow C. Holmes, Jr. was born on November 26, 1938 to the union of Woodrow Sr. and Jeanette Holmes in Baltimore, Maryland. He was baptized at an early age at Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Baltimore, by the then pastor Rev. Harrison J Bryant.
He was affectionately called Buddy by his family and Woody by his wife and friends, and it has been stated by many friends that just the mention of his name elicits recollections of fun and camaraderie.
Woodrow received his early education in the Baltimore Public School system in which he excelled such that he was skipped by two grades which allowed him to graduate from Douglas High School one year ahead of schedule.
Following his high school graduation Woodrow attended and graduated from Morgan State University with a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics. He later earned his MBA degree from Rutgers University.
On July 14, 1967 Woodrow married the love of his life Vivian Flood and they raised one son, John Robert (Bobby).
Woody became a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. in 1976 and soon after joining the fraternity he became a Life Member. In 1980 he served as president of the Zeta Epsilon Lambda Chapter in Red Bank, New Jersey. During his first year of office he had the idea of holding a formal charity gala in order to raise money for scholarships that benefit graduating high school seniors and provided help for local community groups. These formal balls raised over $160,000.00 between 1982-1997.
Woodrow's work history included various prestigious positions including a period of time at the Pentagon. Woodrow's last employment was with the federal government at Fort Monmouth for the U.S.A. Communications Electric Command as senior manager of the Systems Analysis Office. He held that position until his retirement.
After his retirement, with the support of his wife, Vivian, he started his own company, Viatech Inc., where he served as President/Chief Executive Officer. Viatech provided custom computer programming service to his former employer and other government agencies.
After a successful fourteen year run, Woody sold the business to a new owner. Said business is still operating under the same name, Viatech.
Woodrow was actively involved in community affairs and social organizations. He was a member of the Howell Township Board of Education, Brookdale College Community Trustee Board, Monmouth County United Way, Monmouth County Men’s Club and the New Jersey Guardsmen.
After his retirement Woody and Vivian became “Florida Snowbirds”. They enjoyed 52 years of marriage and continued their journey of traveling, cruising, playing golf and spending time with family. Woody will always be remembered for his contagious laughter, love of people, and generosity. He had a passion for assisting young people in continuing their education.
Woody will always be loved and cherished by his loving wife Vivian, son Bobby, daughter- in- love Maryellen, granddaughters Jasmine and Jessie , sisters Barbara and Yvonne, brothers Melvin and Stanley and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren, other relatives, neighbors and friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to ZEL Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Scholarship Fund and mailed to Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., 31 Flintlock Dr., Howell, New Jersey 07331.
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