James Allen Holmes, Sr.

Minister James Allen Holmes, Sr., also known as ‘Big James’, 79, of Denver, Colorado, passed away on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at Denver Hospice.

He was born November 6, 1946, in Denver, the son of Conner and Melina (Cobbs) Holmes, I. James graduated from Manuel High School in 1964. He then proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam era from June of 1969 until he was honorably discharged in September of 1970. During his time in the service, he received honors such as the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Army Commendation Medal 2nd OLC, and Air Medal 2nd AWD.

James worked as an operating room attendant and Chaplain at St. Joseph’s Hospital for over 35 years. He also was a spiritual advisor, counselor, mentor, teacher, preacher, friend, and big brother at Phillip B. Gilliam Youth Services Center for 35 years. James was a kindhearted and giving man who loved God and loved studying God’s word. He loved his family immensely. James could be funny at times but also serious at other times and he didn’t like confusion at all. He cherished his classic 1956 Chevy Bel Air-Blue car.

Left to cherish his memory is one son, James Allen Holmes, Jr.; one grandson, Jerran Holmes; his godson, Tyvan Fields; five siblings: Conner (Bessie) Holmes II, Christine Holmes, Alice A. Norman, June M. Holmes-Edwards, and Twila L. Holmes; and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, in-laws, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Conner and Melina Holmes, I; and four siblings: Elder Edward V. Holmes, Bobbie J. Holmes, Charles O. Holmes, and Johnny L. Holmes, Sr.

Cremation has been accorded. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. at Antioch Church of God in Christ located at 6825 E. 26th Ave. Denver, Colorado on Friday, September 4, 2026. A shelter service with military honors will then take place at 2:00 p.m. at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver. Anyone who will be attending will want to meet at Staging Area RED by 1:45 p.m. A repass will immediately follow back at Antioch Church of God in Christ.

The family would like to give a special thank you to Antioch Church of God in Christ, Fort Logan National Cemetery, Diana’s Flowers & Gifts, Pastor & 1st Lady Venerable, Pastor AJ McDonald, Elder M. Fuller, Arthur E Robinson, Bishop & 1st Lady W. H. McDonald, and all family members and friends for their support and dedication. Services have been entrusted to All Veterans Funeral and Cremation. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.altogetherfuneral.com.