Barbara Reynolds Holiman

Barbara Reynolds Holiman, age 88, passed away peacefully after a five year battle with Alzheimer’s disease on Wednesday, May 20, 2020. Affectionately known as “Barbar” and “Baba” by her grandchildren, she was born to Leon Dewey and Kate Carr Reynolds on June 20,1931 in Meridian, MS. Upon graduation from Meridian High School, she obtained a degree from Mississippi State College for Women. During her time there she was a member of Pi Delta Epsilon journalism honorary, Home Economics Club, and the Hottentots, Black List, and Lockheart Social Clubs. She continued her education in social work at Tulane University in a master’s degree program. She married Richard Ralph Holiman in 1955 and moved to Greenwood, MS where she raised her family. While in Greenwood she was a member of North Greenwood Baptist Church and enjoyed teaching children’s Sunday School. She was widowed in 1989 and later moved to Jackson, MS to be closer to family.

Barbara will be remembered for her steadfast faith in Christ and for being a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She was a second mother to many in the neighborhood, and her kitchen was always welcoming with home cooked meals and home-made rolls. She exemplified her servant’s heart by always being there for her children and grandchildren with wisdom and grace. She spent many memorable times playing bridge and enjoying social gatherings with her friends. Her hobbies included gardening, sewing, upholstering, and antique shopping. She cherished her friendships with her cousins while growing up in Meridian and later when reconnecting with others after she moved to Jackson.

She is survived by her children: Ralph Holiman, Jr. (Laura) of Bay St. Louis; Reynolds Holiman (Beth) of Leesburg, FL; Allen Holiman (Paige) and Kate Holiman Bowman (David) both of Jackson. Also, her grandchildren: Mary Holiman of Bay St. Louis, Richard Holiman, III of Union, New Jersey; Jackson Holiman and Parker Holiman both of Leesburg, FL; Allen Holiman, Jr; Madeline Holiman, and Jack Reynolds Holiman, all of Jackson; Christine Bowman Murray (Jack) of Nashville, TN; Sarah Allen Bowman and Lizzie Bowman, both of Jackson.

The family would like to express our gratitude to the devoted caregivers of Madison County Nursing Home. Graveside services will be in Indianola, MS and held at a later date. Memorials may be made to The Mind Center, University of MS Medical Center or a favorite charity.