Martha Elizabeth Holmes

Martha Holmes, 83 of Abilene, passed away Friday November 17, 2017 at Hendrick Hospice Center. A service is scheduled for 4:00 pm Tuesday November 21, 2017 at Piersall Funeral Directors Chapel, 733 Butternut St. Visitation with the family will be held Monday evening from 4-6 pm at the funeral home.

Martha was born in Covington, Tennessee on September 12, 1934 to Robert and Jenny Delk George.  She later moved to Memphis, Tennessee where she met the love of her life Larry Holmes.   In 1968, they moved to Abilene where Larry served as a minister at Highland Church of Christ.

Martha had a joy that was especially strong when she was in the presence of children whether family or community. She was incredibly patient and kind — something that she was able to perfect with her six children, lots of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Those qualities also made her a valuable part of the church family. Taking care of children was her life’s work

Southern hospitality and a sense of humor were constant and Martha was always found with a smile. Even though she had health challenges in her final days, as her family surrounded her telling stories and singing hymns, her smile showed through.

Martha is survived by five sons; Matt Holmes, Mark Holmes (Gloria), Tim Holmes (Jon-Eric), Andy Holmes (Wendy), Jamie Holmes (Angie) and her daughter, Libby Poor (Rob), and her sister, Becky Tolson (Billy) of Panama City, FL. She is also survived by 12 grandchildren; Jeremy Holmes (Hannah), Tony Holmes, Lisa Holmes, Shelton Holmes, Andrew and Avy Holmes, Zeke, Micah and Noah Holmes, Marcus (Reagan Maurer), Kacie and Jackson Taylor, as well as six great-grandchildren, many other extended family members and close friends.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Larry, one sister and three brothers.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to Hendrick Hospice or Christian Service Center. Condolences may be offered to the family online at www.pbfuneraldirectors.com .