Barbara Elizabeth Holmes

On December 21, 2023, Barbara Elizabeth Striegler Holmes (age 96) passed away peacefully in Corpus Christi, TX. Barbara was born in Melvin, TX, second daughter to Oran M. and Blanche Lawson Striegler. The family moved to San Antonio early in Barbara's life, where she attended school, graduating from Thomas Jefferson High School in 1944. She attended San Antonio Junior College and later matriculated into the University of Texas at Austin, where she excelled as a student, studying elementary education, and was active in campus life, including Alpha Delta Pi Sorority and student government. After earning her degree, Barbara taught elementary school students in San Antonio, and spent a year in the early 1950's teaching the children of military officers in the U.S. occupying forces in Germany.

Returning to Texas, she was introduced to the love of her life, William Hays Holmes (Bill), at a speed boat race in Corpus Christi, thanks to her cousin. Barbara and Bill married in San Antonio in August 1955, and began their lives together in Corpus Christi. She joined him in managing the boat business, Gulf Coast Marine, that Bill started in 1954, and they both continued actively participating at the store into their 80's. Working together, the company grew to be successful and remains a family business with their son, Billy, and his wife, Alex, at the helm.

Barbara enjoyed traveling the world, and shared this with her children and grandchildren. She maintained her sharp intellect and sense of humor throughout her entire life, remembering the lyrics of countless songs, and guessing the punch lines of corny "dad" jokes until the very end. Barbara was passionate about her children and grandchildren, supported them in every way, and is considered inspirational and integral to their successes. She was predeceased by her mother, father, sister and husband. Barbara is survived by her son, daughter-in-law, and granddaughter; her daughter, son-in-law, grandson, granddaughter, grandson-in-law and 2 great grandchildren; a nephew, a niece, and many cousins.

A gathering to Celebrate the Life of Barbara Holmes will be held February 1, from 11AM to 2PM at the Corpus Christi Yacht Club, and a private graveside ceremony will follow.