Holmes
With profound love and deep respect, the family of Ronald Jackson Holmes announces his peaceful passing on June 3, 2025, at the age of 85. A devoted husband, courageous soldier, spirited adventurer, and beloved father and grandfather, Ronald lived a life marked by service, vitality, and heartfelt connection.
Ronald was born on Nov. 19, 1939, in Montpelier, VT, to Richard and Ruth Holmes. Raised in a close-knit family that valued faith, duty, and resilience, Ronald grew up alongside his siblings, forming bonds that would sustain him through the many chapters of his life.
Even as a young man, Ronald felt a deep calling to serve. While still in high school, in 1957, he joined the National Guard—a decision that would mark the beginning of a distinguished military career. After graduating in 1958, he entered active duty in the United States Army, ultimately serving three tours in Vietnam. Ronald spent a total of 23 years in military service: nine years in the National Guard and thirteen years on active duty. His bravery, discipline, and commitment to his fellow servicemen never wavered. Those who served alongside him knew him as a man of integrity, grit, and unwavering courage.
In 2012, Ronald became a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Azle, returning to the faith in which he was raised with renewed devotion. He was also a proud and active member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10374, where he found camaraderie and continued purpose in serving the veteran community.
Ronald approached life with a daring spirit and a boundless zest for adventure. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, always at peace on the water or in the woods. In his later years, he surprised and inspired many by taking up both yoga and kickboxing, proving that vitality knows no age. And perhaps most unforgettable of all, Ronald had a passion for skydiving. He frequented Skydive Texas and made celebratory jumps for both his 60th and 70th birthdays—soaring through the sky as fearlessly as he once patrolled battlefields.
Ronald’s love for his family was the heart of his world. He shared a beautiful life with his beloved wife, Diane Webster Holmes, with whom he celebrated 65 years of marriage—a partnership rooted in deep affection, respect, and enduring friendship. Together, they raised three sons: Richard Holmes, Randall Holmes, and Rodney Holmes, each of whom carries forward Ronald’s legacy of strength, honor, and heart. He was also a proud and doting grandfather to Haylee Holmes and Katie Holmes, who brought immense light and laughter into his life.
Ronald is survived by his wife, Diane; his sons, Richard and his wife, Rhonda, Randall and his wife, Karie, and Rodney and his wife, Noelle; his granddaughters, Haylee and Katie; and his cherished sisters, Sandra Holmes and Ruth Holmes. He is preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Ruth Holmes, and his brothers, Francis Holmes and Gary Holmes, who surely welcomed him with open arms in eternity.
Those who knew Ronald will remember his fierce loyalty, his contagious sense of adventure, and his unwavering love for God, country, and family. His presence was a gift, and his legacy is one of courage, passion, and purpose. He lived every day fully—on land, water, or in the sky—and in doing so, inspired others to do the same.
Visitation will be held on Monday, June 16, 2025, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Azle and Lake Worth Funeral Home. Ronald will be laid to rest with full military honors on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at 11 a.m. at the Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery.
May he rest in peace, having soared the skies, fought the good fight, and loved with his whole heart.
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