NEWTON — Lloyd Wesley Holmes, born Feb. 5, 1941, passed away peacefully at the age of 84 on Oct. 23, 2025, at Newton Medical Center surrounded by his family.
In June of 1960, Lloyd went on a blind date and met the love of his life, Rose Mary Covert. They immediately fell in love and were married on Sept. 24, 1960. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and devotion, recently celebrating their 65th wedding anniversary-a testament to their enduring bond.
He earned both a Master’s and a Specialist’s Degree in Education, reflecting his deep dedication to learning and to shaping young minds. Lloyd devoted his career to working with and educating teenagers, believing in the power of guidance, patience, and encouragement to help them grow into their full potential.
Outside of his professional life, Lloyd found joy in the simple pleasures. He loved to fish, especially with his brother, Wayne, and his buddies. He was also a passionate sports fan, cheering faithfully for the University of Kansas Jayhawks basketball, the New York Yankees baseball, and the Kansas City Chiefs football teams. His enthusiasm was infectious, and he never missed a chance to talk sports with friends and family.
Lloyd was preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd and Gladys Holmes; his son, Tom Holmes; his brother, Wayne Holmes; his sisters, Opal Shanks and Wilma Ruttgen, and his great-granddaughter Ariah Rose.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Rose Mary Holmes; daughters, Crystal (Jeff) Hempler and Sheryl Swanson; grandchildren, Mindy, Cindy, Jessica, and Kimberly Holmes, and Terra and Ashley Scott; great-grandchildren, JT, Adison, Preston, Penelope, Jonah, Isabella, Terence, and Nova; and many nieces and nephews.
Lloyd will be remembered for his incredible memory, many stories, his smile and humor, among many other endearing qualities. Whether through his work, his friendships, or his role as a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and uncle, he was a steady and compassionate presence.
A Memorial service will be held on Saturday, Nov. 22, at 10 a.m. at Immanuel Baptist Church in Newton to honor his life and legacy. On Nov. 29, there will also be a graveside service at 10:30 a.m. at the Oswego Cemetery on Highway US 160.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Immanuel Baptist Church Scholarship Fund, supporting students entering the field of education; cause close to Lloyd’s heart. They may be left in the care of Petersen Funeral Home, 215 N. Main Street, Newton, Kansas.
