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Jerilyn (Jerrie) Jiles Holmes, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and pillar of her community, passed away on Sept. 6, 2023, at the age of 80. 

Born on Jan. 4, 1943, Jerrie is preceded in death by her husband, John Allen Holmes, Jr., parents, Jessie Thomas and Mary Emma Massey Jiles, brother Joseph Thomas Jiles, and sister Judy Jiles Cox.

Jerrie’s journey through life was marked by dedication and service. 

She graduated from Newnan High School in 1961, and went on to earn a degree in Education from LaGrange College.

In 1963, Jerrie married the love of her life, Allen, and their union endured for 54 years.

Together, they raised two sons, John Allen Holmes III and Joseph Brent Holmes, and welcomed with love daughters-in-law Catherine Holmes and Paige Holmes, and cherished three grandchildren, John Allen Holmes IV (Jack), William Henry Holmes, and Chloe Joy Holmes.

Jerrie’s passion for education led her to teach third and fourth grades in the LaGrange City Schools. Her natural talents for planning and organizing soon led her to become the Public Relations Director for the school system. 

It was there that she initiated the Teacher of the Year program and created the Partners in Education program, leaving an indelible mark on the educational community.

Beyond her career, Jerrie was a dedicated community leader. She was a charter member of the Junior Service League, where she served as president as well as chair of the League’s inaugural Attic Sale. 

During the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, she played a pivotal role in organizing the Olympic Ambassador Program in LaGrange.

After retiring from the Troup County School System, Jerrie continued her service as a greeter and gift shop attendant at the Hills and Dales Estate, becoming a valued presence. 

She also frequented the Active Life Center, where her warmth and spirit endeared her to all.

Jerrie’s faith was a central part of her life. She was a longtime member of LaGrange First United Methodist Church, where she taught Sunday School for many years. 

She was involved in the church’s Soul Connections group, the Lydia Women’s Circle, and the Pairs and Spares Sunday School class.

In her later years, Jerrie was an engaged resident and member of the Vernon Woods community, where she continued to share her energy and enthusiasm with those around her.

A memorial service will be held at the LaGrange First United Methodist Church chapel on Saturday, Sept. 9th, at 1 P.M. followed by a reception in the Fellowship Hall. 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in memory of Jerrie be made to LaGrange First United Methodist Church or Hospice of LaGrange. 

Jerilyn Jiles Holmes will be remembered for her unwavering commitment to her family, her community, and her faith, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and dedication that will endure.