

Jeff was born on January 4, 1950, in Orange Township, New Jersey, to William Tucker and Karen Bausum Holmes. During his high school years, Jeff spent his summers working at Camp Merry Heart in Hackettstown, New Jersey, a camp for individuals with disabilities and special needs—a place that remained dear to his heart. He later attended West Virginia Wesleyan College, where he formed lifelong friendships and developed a strong sense of service.
After graduating from college, Jeff answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Marine Corps, where he proudly attained the rank of Captain. Following his military service, he attended the FBI Academy and began a distinguished career with the Federal Bureau of Investigation. He served as a Supervisory Special Agent until his retirement in 2006.
His commitment to public service continued after his FBI career. He joined the Fulton County Sheriff’s Department and later served with the Sandy Springs Police Department for ten years before retiring from law enforcement.
His work wasn’t simply a career; it was a calling and a way of life. Throughout his years of service in the military and law enforcement, Jeff took great pride in his work and his commitment to serving others. His dedication, integrity, and sense of duty were defining parts of who he was.
Above all else, Jeff was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He shared nearly 40 years of marriage with the love of his life, Florence Mathis Holmes. Together, they built a family rooted in love, loyalty, and unwavering support.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Florence Mathis Holmes; his daughters, Amanda Groover Turner (Chris) and Tiffany Odom; his cherished grandchildren, Haley Groover, Grayson Odom, and Hudson Odom; his brothers, Bill Holmes (late wife, Madeline), Scott Holmes (Maureen), and Brad Holmes (Donna); as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Jeff will be remembered for his strength, integrity, dedication to service, and deep love for his family. Throughout his life, he answered the call to serve his country and his community, but his greatest legacy will always be the family he loved and the lives he touched along the way.
The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to his loving caregivers, Valencia Almon and Adrian Butts; his physical therapist, Raina Addesa; and Trinity Hospice Care of Georgia for the compassion, support, and care they provided to Jeff. They also wish to thank the countless others who offered love, kindness, and care throughout the last several years.
He will be deeply missed and forever loved.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation or the Center for Movement Challenges in Sandy Springs, Georgia, in honor of Jeff and in support of those living with movement disorders.
Visitation will be held at Sandy Springs Chapel, 136 Mt. Vernon Highway, Sandy Springs, Georgia 30328, on November 16, 2026, beginning at 11:00 am.
A Celebration of Life will follow at Sandy Springs Chapel, 136 Mt. Vernon Highway, Sandy Springs, Georgia 30328, on November 16, 2026, beginning at 12:00 pm.
A Committal Service will take place at Arlington Memorial Park, 201 Mount Vernon Highway, Sandy Springs, Georgia 30328, on November 16, 2026, beginning at 1:00 pm.
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