Herbert Bascum Holmes

Herbert Bascum Holmes, born on May 16, 1937, in Russell County, Virginia, passed away peacefully on July 17, 2026, in Bristol, Tennessee. His life was characterized by devotion to God, family, and a steadfast work ethic. Herbert was a devoted Christian who attended Revival Center of Bristol Virginia.

Herbert served his country honorably in the United States Army. After his military service, Herbert and brothers spent many years in carpentry and the construction of houses. Through his work, Herbert demonstrated skill and dedication, building homes not only for friends and members of his community but also lovingly building homes for his own children. For many years Herbert found a passion for driving trucks and established his own trucking company. Later he drove trucks for E. Dillon for nearly 20 years from which he later retired.

At the heart of Herbert's life was his enduring love for family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Margaret Caudill Holmes, whose companionship was a constant source of joy and strength. Herbert’s memory will be cherished by his daughters, Kim Johnson and her husband, Ted and Valerie Sullins and her husband, David, who carry forward his legacy of kindness and perseverance.

Herbert is also survived by his brothers, Glen “Bob” Holmes (Vada), James "Tuck" Holmes (Donna), and Henry Holmes (Inge), his sister, Margaret Holloway (Claude), and sister-in-law, Opal Holmes. His presence will be deeply missed by his grandchildren—Nathan Johnson (Shawna), Jason Johnson, Kailey Wallace (Hunter), Krista Lloyd (Christopher), Hannah Sisk (Caleb), Meaghan Sullins, Kara “Shellie” Sullins, and Khloe Sullins—and great-grandchildren, Brynnley Johnson, Lukas Johnson, Lexton Johnson, and Hayden Wallace. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

Herbert was preceded in death by his father, Jeff Holmes, and mother, Maxie Mitchell Holmes; his brothers, Jeff Holmes, Jr., Bill Holmes, and Tom Holmes; his sisters, Betty Helton, Donia Hess, Brenda Hiles, and Sue Poston; sisters-in-law, Tootsie Holmes; and brothers-in-law, Fitzhugh Helton and Charlie Poston.

The family would like to express their appreciation to Senior Helpers, Kathy, Misty, Lindsey, and Pam and to the staff of Caris Hospice and Ballad Hospice House. A very special thanks to Mike with the VA for always going above and beyond for the Holmes family.

A private funeral service was held with Lyons Smith, Donald Barton and Leo Rhymer officiating. Pallbearers were Nathan Johnson, Jason Johnson, Hunter Wallace, Caleb Sisk, Christopher Lloyd and Ryan Clark. Honorary pallbearers were Steve Helton, Junior Tweed, Rocky Dale and the Men of Revival Center of Bristol. Military honors were provided by Virginia Army National Guard Honor Guard and Highlands Veterans Honor Guard.