Leon Edward Holmes Jr was born on November 9, 1951 to the late Tommie Lee Roberts Holmes and Leon Edward Holmes Sr in Jersey City, New Jersey. He transitioned peacefully into eternity on Friday, December 18, 2020.

Leon was the youngest of 6 children and received his education in the Jersey City Public School System. He was blessed to welcome into the world one daughter, Nicole before marrying LaDonna Clawson on February 7, 1975 where two sons Atiba and Konata were born to this union.

Following in his father’s footsteps, Leon was employed by Keffuel and Esser, Inc in Teteboro, NJ and then Forina Patio in Bayonne, NJ. Seeking new opportunities Leon moved to the family’s native Valdosta, GA in 1991. There he found work at the construction site of the new Water Treatment Plant. After the project was completed, he secured work at Valdosta State University and Big Lots. Leon was good with his hands and excellent in the subject of math therefore welcoming the opportunity to work on various construction projects through the years.

Jr as he was affectionately called by family and friends was a loving father who always strived to be the best father he could be to his children. Although he was protective of his family and didn’t hold back on speaking his mind, he gave us all the freedom to grow as individuals cheering us on to do our best. Known as the fun-loving uncle he knew how to make you laugh and was regularly the life of the party. His love of cooking and great culinary skills kept you coming back for more. Jr had a big caring heart and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Predeceased by his parents and one sister Anna Marie Holmes, Leon leaves to lovingly cherish his memory one daughter Nicole (David) Bryant of Pomona, NY, two sons Atiba Holmes of Atlanta, GA and Konata Holmes of Newport News, VA; five grandchildren James Bryant, Marcus Bryant and Joshua Bryant of Pomona, NY, Aleihya Holmes of Newport News, VA and Zephaniah Holmes of Hampton, VA; four sisters Alline Brown of Piscataway, NJ, Laura Muhammad of Stockbridge, GA, Cornethia McCloud (Henry) of Plainfield, NJ and Patricia Williams of Jersey City, NJ; one aunt Lillian DuBoise of Jersey City, NJ a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

Graveside services will be held on Monday, December 28, 2020 at 12:00 Noon at Mt. Vienna Church Cemetery with Rev. Norman Edwards officiating.