Geraldean Woods Holmes, 99 a beloved member of the Hot Springs, Arkansas transitioned on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. Born on May 24, 1924, in Memphis, Tennessee, to the union of Sarah and Edward Woods, Geraldean was raised alongside two sisters and one brother in a home filled with love and support. Affectionately known as "Jerry," she carried the values of family, resilience, and faith throughout her remarkable life.

She was preceded in death by her dear sisters, Hattie Mae Gordon, Ruth Woods, and Dessie Strozier, and her brother Edward Woods.

At a young age, Geraldean moved to Hot Springs, Arkansas, where she attended Langston High School where she became part of the city's vibrant history, working in the iconic bathhouses along Bathhouse Row. She fondly recalled the thriving business district along Malvern Avenue, known as "Black Broadway," where she established deep roots and a life marked by dedication to her community.

Geraldean married the love of her life, Mr. Ernest Holmes, and together, they built a beautiful partnership that stood the test of time. The two shared a devoted life until his passing. Though they did not have biological children, she embraced three bonus children with love and care, exemplifying the depth of her generosity and warmth. For more than 60 years, she resided in the same home, becoming a cherished fixture in the Hot Springs community.

A devoted member of Historic Visitors Chapel A.M.E. Church for over 70 years, Mrs. Holmes was the church's oldest member at the time of her passing. Her unwavering faith and commitment to her congregation were cornerstones of her life.

Known for her impeccable sense of style, Mrs. Holmes took pride in her elegant appearance, often seen in stylish heels, hats, gloves, and stockings. Though reserved, she expressed her love and support for her community in many ways, actively participating in local events and initiatives. Her passions included singing, gardening, and tending to her beloved houseplants, all of which brought joy to those around her.

Mrs. Holmes' legacy of grace, strength, and faith is cherished by her two loving sisters, Pat and Dessie, as well as a host of extended family, church members, and dear friends. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her spirit will continue to inspire those who were blessed to know her.

In 2023, she was honored as a Senior Saint, a testament to the admiration and respect she earned throughout her life. She found happiness in simple pleasures—watching baseball, playing Solitaire, enjoying "Wheel of Fortune," and even washing her own car well into her later years. She lived by five simple rules for happiness: Free your heart from hatred, Free your mind from worries, Live simply, Give more, Expect less.

Geraldean leaves behind a rich legacy of love, faith, and community, her loving sister Patricia Louise Gantt; her nephews Byron Strozier, Edward Calvin, Harold Gordon, and Olivevee Gantt; her nieces Gwendolynn Harris, Maeuniece Gordon, Louise Moss, and Wilma Dabney; her stepson Clarence Franklin, her stepdaughter Deneen Hill and Lorna Murphy, Her bonus grandson is Caleb Rimson. A host of additional cherished great nieces, nephews, family, friends, Caregivers Rita Bolden, Lisa Penny Monigue Lawson, Alize Forte, and her best friend Dorothy Pucket. All who had the privilege of knowing her. Her legacy of love, faith, and community spirit will continue to inspire those who carry her memory in their hearts.

The Funeral will be held on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 11:00 am. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at Historic Visitors Chapel A.M.E. Church 319 Church Street Hot Springs, AR 71901.

You may sign the guest registry at http://www.carriganmemorial.com

Arrangements are entrusted to Carrigan Memorial Funeral Services.