John R. Holmes

John R. Holmes, 68, passed away on October 10, 2026, leaving behind a family who adored him, countless friends who could always count on him, and a lifetime of memories. Born on September 5, 1958, John was the son of the late Virginia (Fleek) Holmes and Howard Holmes. He was raised in Whippany, New Jersey, and later made his home in Easton, Pennsylvania, where he spent many years before moving to Leesburg, Florida, in 2020. John built his career in communications sales, a field well suited to his outgoing personality and natural ability to connect with just about anyone. He was hardworking and dependable—qualities that extended far beyond his career. John was the proud father of three children: Sean Holmes of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania; Lauren Holmes of Bluffton, South Carolina; and Ryan Holmes and his wife, Marielle, of Bluffton, South Carolina. He is also survived by their mother, Kathleen Holmes; his sister, Vicky Kane and her husband, Jim Kane; his beloved grandchildren, Skylar, Jaime, and Carson; his niece, Chrissy Kane; and nephew, TJ Kane. Being a father and grandfather was one of the greatest parts of John’s life. He loved his family fiercely and unconditionally and was the person you could call when you needed help, advice, a place to stay, or simply someone in your corner. John had an especially generous and welcoming spirit. His door was always open, and there was always room for one more. He was the kind of man who would give someone a place to stay simply because they needed one and had a way of making people feel accepted and at home. John volunteered with the Forks Township Sports Commission and enjoyed fishing, golfing, cooking, playing cornhole, and spending time with the people he loved. John also knew how to have a good time. He loved a good party, good food, plenty of laughs, and a VO on the rocks. Whether he was cooking for everyone, telling stories, or simply enjoying the moment, he knew some of life’s best memories were made when people came together. To his friends, John was loyal and dependable. To his family, he was their constant. To his children, he was Dad. John worked hard, loved even harder, and gave freely of himself. He was simply and genuinely John—welcoming, funny, hardworking, generous, loyal, and always ready to enjoy life with the people he loved. The stories will continue to be told. The laughs will still come. Someone will pour a VO on the rocks and think of him. And his children and grandchildren will continue carrying pieces of him wherever they go. John was deeply loved in this life, and he will be deeply missed for the rest of ours.