Obituaries

Mary Elizabeth Holmes

Photo of Mary Elizabeth Holmes
Mary Elizabeth Holmes, 88, of Little Rock, Ark., died Wednesday, Jan. 4. She is survived by her daughter, Ann Holmes Razer, of Springfield, Mo., and son, David Harlan Holmes, of Little Rock. She was the proud grandmother of three grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, all of whom reside in Little Rock. She was preceded in death by her husband, Harlan Thomas Holmes, and a son, Thomas Leland Holmes. Known by family and friends as "Zibbie," she was born in Logansport, La., to Reverend Leland and Lucille Clegg. She had one brother, Oliver Clegg. The family lived in various cities throughout the region as Rev. Clegg was assigned to new churches. Wherever they lived, Zibbie made many friends, several of whom remained lifelong friends. She graduated from Hendrix College, and soon after married Harlan. Eventually, they made their home in Little Rock, where he was an engineer for Arkansas Power & Light Company. Zibbie remained at home, taking care of the duties of raising a family of three children. Zibbie was very involved in her church, serving on various boards and commissions, women's groups, children's ministries and helping establish new Sunday school classes. In the 1950s, she and Harlan were one of the charter members of Little Rock's Trinity United Methodist Church. Years later, the family returned to Pulaski Heights United Methodist, where Zibbie's father was once its minister. In her spare time, Zibbie enjoyed many activities and interests. She was a lover of music, especially opera. She and Harlan spent many Saturdays listening to opera on the radio and cooking together. Zibbie was an avid reader, particularly of historical novels and books on politics. Politics was one of her greatest passions. She was a lifelong Democrat, and volunteered in the election campaigns of many Democratic candidates, including those for President Bill Clinton. In her last years, she spent time watching political programs on television and reading biographies of famous politicians. Zibbie spent much time visiting her friends, sharing stories and discussing the events of the day. She was a bridge player, belonging to three clubs at one time. She enjoyed the fun and fellowship it offered with her friends. They always enjoyed her charm, wit and great sense of humor. After her husband retired, they spent time traveling. They made several European trips and traveled extensively throughout the United States and Canada. Hot Springs was often a choice for weekend get-aways. In her last years, Zibbie especially loved the time she spent with family, including the grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was proud to be part of four generations of the Holmes family, all living in Little Rock. Though most of her days were spent at home, she enjoyed visiting with her friends as much as possible. A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 10 at Pulaski Heights United Methodist Church at 1 p.m. The church is located at 4823 Woodlawn Ave. Burial at Forest Hills Memorial Park will be held following the church service. All are welcome to attend. Viewing is scheduled from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, Jan. 9 at Ruebel Funeral Home, 6313 W. Markham in Little Rock. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Pulaski Heights United Methodist Church Foundation. Contact the church for more information at 501-664-3600. Arrangements by Ruebel Funeral Home, www.ruebelfuneralhome.com.

Published January 8, 2012

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