Betsy Lou Holmes

Betsy Lou Holmes was born on March 10.1937 to Mittie and Curtis Dawkins in Lexington, North Carolina. She was the second child and only girl among her brothers — Arthur, Robert (deceased), and Nolan. The family moved permanently to Alexandria, Virginia when she was 2 years old. She attended and was baptized at Ebenezer Baptist Church. She graduated in 1955 from Parker-Gray High School. She lived and breathed the small, close-knit hometown in which she grew up — so much so that she visited quite frequently until 2023. She warmly and proudly referred to Alexandia as being “home” all of her life was her ultimate joy. On June 3, 1961, she married Dones Holmes, and they settled in Detroit, Michigan. From their union, they had 2 children, Gail and Eric. In 1970, began working part time as a noon hour aid at the neighborhood elementary school. It was there that discovered her passion for working with children and teaching. She later started working full time as then became a paraprofessional. Her passion led on a journey to her to pursue her Associate Degree, then Bachelors and Master’s Degree in Education from Wayne State University. She taught Special Education in the Detroit Public Schools. She adored her students so much that she rarely missed days from work. Her health eventually forced her to retire after 37 years. Known as a “Woman of Style”. Betsy was a classy woman is one who exuded and elegance in her day-to-day life. She carried herself with grace, dignity, and confidence that set her apart from the rest of the crowd. She carried herself with a sense of warmth about her that endeared others to her. She loved traveling when she could. Family meant everything to her. She also attended just about all her children’s, grandchildren’s, and great-grandchildren’s school and sports events. She leaves behind a host of friends and relatives; including her 2 brothers, Arthur and Nolan, nieces and nephews; 2 children — Gail and Eric. Stepson Richard Holmes (Kathy) 4 grandchildren: Christoper, Jennifer, Lauryn, Devin. Also, 3 great-grandchildren. Chase, Christian, and Harper. She touched and left an impression on everyone she met. will be greatly missed. Please encourage the Holmes family with words of Love and Condolences on this personal Tribute page, created just for Betsy Holmes. To send flowers or to plant a tree in memory of: please visit on online sympathy store.

Betsy Lou Holmes

March 10, 1937 - January 26, 2024