Marion Holmes Jr., affectionately known by his children as Pops and Gator, was born January 3, 1945, in DeFuniak Springs, Florida. He was the eldest of six children born to Marion Holmes Sr. of DeFuniak Springs and Deloris Green-Holmes of Mobile, Alabama. He was preceded in death by his parents, a stepdaughter Gertie, stepson Von and grandson Marion Holmes IV. During his spiritual journey he attended worship services at Christ Builders Church, Evangelistic Revival Center, Now Faith Ministries, The Gospel of the Kingdom Church, and finally Park Street Church of God in Christ.
Marion was a product of the Walton County School system. He attended Tivoli High School and completed his formal education through training as a chef. He enjoyed a long, rich, and purpose-filled life. Extraordinarily talented, He showcased his many gifts as a good listener, a great storyteller, quick-wittedness, and a wonderful sense of humor. He always showed kindness, love, and respect to others, and took pride in what he did. For several years Marion worked in the food service industry as a top chef and culinary expert. He honed his craft at beach resorts and high-end restaurants throughout the Destin-Fort Walton Beach area. He consistently surpassed the expectations of both customers and owners. He would often say “you must sell the sizzle, not just the steak.” His skills in presenting entrees, coupled with herbs, spices, and desserts made him a customer favorite.
Marion’s talent surfaced early as a teenager when he led the Tivoli High Marching Band as its Drum Major. The band was prominently featured during homecoming parades and half-time activities at football games. Marion directed the band in performing unique formations and excelled in the toss and catch of the baton while simultaneously executing a split maneuver. Although he was not a member of the FAMU Marching 100, he personified their style and presentation.
On the evening of May 25, 2025, Marion departed his physical life peacefully in his sleep.
TO CHERISH AND HONOR HIS LIFE HE LEAVES, his former wife Johnnie Mae (Glenn). From this union he leaves two sons, Marion Holmes III, and Brentz Holmes both of Ft Walton Beach, FL and one daughter, Angela Holmes-Garvin (Larin) of Clarksville, Tennessee. He also leaves stepsons Buster Allen and Lester Allen of Ft Walton Beach, FL; and stepdaughter Belinda Allen-Bentley of Jacksonville, FL; Three brothers Timothy (Felicia) of Springhill, FL; Don (Margaret) of Tallahassee, FL; Alonzo (Carol) of DeFuniak Springs, FL; Two sisters Gloria of DeFuniak Springs, FL, and Celestine of Ft Walton Beach, FL.
He is preceded in death by David and Cynthia. He is also survived by brothers John, Edward (Angela), Danny (Glenda), Donnie of the DeFuniak Springs, FL, sisters Elizabeth of Sanford, FL. Pearl (Willie) of the DeFuniak Springs, Lottie (Reginald) of Pensacola, FL, and Bernice of DeFuniak Springs, FL. Marion also leaves a host of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Celebration of Life Services will be held at 11:00 AM, Wednesday, June 4, 2025 at Clary-Glenn Funeral Home Chapel; with Pastor Alonzo Holmes officiating.
Flowers are being accepted.
