Rosa Lee Holmes, 93 was born February 9, 1927 to Michael and Nettie Ann Rutledge in McClellanville, SC. She was the third of five children and their first born daughter.
She was united in holy matrimony to James Edward Holmes Sr. in 1948. They relocated to Toledo in 1949. To this union five children were born.
When she moved to Toledo, she united with the St. Paul A.M.E Zion Church under the Pastorate of Rev. G. W. Oliver. Rosa Lee accepted Christ at an early age. She was a faithful member of St. Paul A.M.E. Zion Church for over 70 years. She was an active member until her health prevented her from attending. She was an advisor to the Junior Usher Board, a Class Leader, an officer with the Oliver Circle, and most known as an usher on Usher Board No. 1, which she took very seriously. Rosa made sure her children were involved in church. She was a bold, blunt and beautiful soul, always expressing her true feelings in every situation. She was known for her delicious peach cobbler. The impact she has had in her 93 years will forever live on.
Rosa Lee was an awesome mother and hard worker. She sometimes worked multiple jobs to support her family. She was a Nurse’s aide, Food Service Worker for Toledo Public Schools, and Teacher’s Aide at Ella P. Stewart School. She also worked for Toledo Building Services to name a few.
Rosa Lee Holmes, affectionately known as Gram and Nana Rosa 93 departed this life on May 13, 2020 at The University of Toledo Medical Center. The family of Rosa Lee Holmes would like to express special thanks to the nurses, staff, and caregivers at Heatherdowns Rehabilitation Center and also the medical team at The University of Toledo Medical Center. Thank you for your hard work, compassion, and your caring heart. It is very much appreciated.
Rosa Lee is preceded in death by both parents, brothers Peter, Louis, and Lias Rutledge, son Larry Holmes, daughter Barbara Holmes and grandson James Elliott Holmes. She is survived by her sister Irine McCoy of Toledo; children James Jr. Hampton, VA, Deborah, and Ron (Twana) Cedar Hill, Texas; 7 Grandchildren, Lamont, Lamar, Laticia, Shannon, Meika, Joyner, and Ronnie. 17 Great Grandchildren; Godchildren Monica Gist and Shaunta’ Hopkins; and a host of nieces, nephews and other caring relatives.