Obituary of Jean Holmes, Marion County, KSGenWeb Digital Library

MARION COUNTY RECORD, 16 February 2000

Obituary of JEAN HOLMES

Jean Holmes, 75, well known drama producer and writer, died Feb. 8, 2000, at Sandpiper Bay Health Center, Wichita.
She was the widow of the late Bill Holmes, former manager of the Duckwall's store in Marion. Born June 1, 1924, at Topeka, she was the daughter of Charles and Maude (Taylor) McKinney.
She attended school at Topeka where she met her future husband. After high school they were married March 16, 1942, at Topeka, but he soon was called to Army service for four years during World War II.
After the war they moved around Kansas, where he was manager of various stores. The family moved from Eureka to Marion, where he became manager of the local Duckwall's store. Daughter Tina was born before they moved to Marion, and Lisa was born in Marion.
Jean was busy with community activities. She wrote and produced Christmas plays for the Presbyterian church, for Marion Community Arts Council, and for the Parent-Teacher Association. She also was active as director of the town's centennial play, and was selected as centennial queen.
She worked as a Red Cross volunteer, was a Girl Scout leader, worked for Friendship Meals, helped at Marion Senior Center, and for years was the deputy county clerk at the courthouse. She enjoyed people and they enjoyed her.
She painted country scenes, enjoyed taking camping trips, hiking, horseback riding, and singing around the campfire. She and Bill took cruises and especially enjoyed their trip to the Holy Land.
They had been married 54 happy years when he died Aug 12, 1996.
She is survived by her daughters, Tina Williams, Pinetop Ariz., and Lisa Navrat, Newton; two sons-in-law; eight grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.
Graveside services were held Saturday morning in Marion Cemetery with the Rev. Brad Hansen officiating.
Casket bearers were Eric Williams, David Williams, Chris Meierhoff, Brandon Williams, Jared Williams, and Thad Meierhoff.
A memorial fund has been established in her name at Marion City Library.

Transcribed and Contributed by Janice Reading