Jack Winston Holmes

Jack Winston Holmes was born in Gastonia, NC to Luther Charles Holmes and Sara Evelyn Holmes.

Jack lied about his age and joined the military at age 15. He was recruited as a US Army Infantry Soldier. He rapidly advanced in the ranks and became a Special Forces radio operator in Vietnam directing American airstrikes on the enemy. He rarely talked about his experiences which remained raw and painful even after all these years.

Most, if not all of his medical issues were a direct result of exposure to chemicals, specifically Agent Orange. He suffered with respiratory issues which progressed as he aged. The last three years were particularly challenging.

He was an enigma. He was mysterious and kept his emotions and feelings close to his chest. Those who knew him the best, knew him the least.

He was a extremely generous man. He opened his pocketbook to many, most repaid, some did not. Those who took advantage of this generous man can explain it to their maker.

His love of animals is legend. He called them Gods creatures who deserved to be treated as such. He has rescued cats, dogs, rabbits, squirrels and birds. Even gave mouth to mouth to a garden lizard that got trapped in a mop bucket. Baby birds fallen from the nest were hand fed by him to grow before he took them to the Wildlife Rescue.

He could be considered arrogant, which was probably true. He was extremely intelligent and spoke several languages. He kept up with current events and responded when he felt the need. He's received correspondence from several US Senators, who he chastised for non-performance. The White House probably has his address on file. They didn't take kindly to names he called the President.

He loved music, mostly oldies from the 50's and 60's. Was also a fan of opera, specifically the original Three Tenors. Carole King and Emmy Lou Harris were favorites.

He was tough when he needed to be, but gentle to those he loved. He will be missed.

https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/authorise.php?k=1654625546188675

Sergeant 1st Class
Special Forces Liason NCO to US Army Airborne School, Ft. Benning, GA
NCO for Special Forces Procurement Office, Ft. Bragg, NC

Survivors:
Spouse - Marilyn Klesel
Daughter - Terri Ann Solesbee / James - Acquone, NC
Son - Jack Holmes - Thomasville, NC
Brother - Luther Charles "Dusty" Holmes / Martha - Anderson, SC
Sister - Jo Ann Clark - Myrtle Beach, SC
Grandchildren - James Solesbee, III - Lacey, WA, Evan Holmes - Thomasville, N
Great Grandchildren - Riley Phillips, Haley Solesbee, James Solesbee IV

Proceeded in death by:
Jo Ann Solesbee - Granddaughter
Douglas Parham and Leland "Nooky" Parham - Step Brothers

Decorations, Medals, Campaign Ribbons awarded:
National Defense Service Medal
Good Conduct Medal (3rd Award)
Vietnam Service Medal w/4 Bronze Stars
Vietnam Campaign Medal w/60 Device
Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry w/Palm
2 Overseas Service Bars
Parachutist Badge
6 Service Stripes
Vietnam Parachutist Badge
Meritorious Unit Commendation, Expert (M-16)
Vietnam Civil Action Honor Medal (1st Class)
 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Jack Winston Holmes, please visit our floral store.