We are deeply saddened to announce that James (Jim) Kevin Holmes, of Ashdale, NS, born June 01, 1951, passed into eternity surrounded by family, devoted medical staff, and close friends on February 13, 2023.
Jim was a son of the late Donald & Rosalie Holmes of River John & Toney River respectively.
Born in New Glasgow, Jim’s family moved to Antigonish in the early 1960’s. Jim remained in Antigonish with the exception of a period of studying at St. Mary’s University in Halifax, until he moved to Ashdale in 1992.
After graduating from St. Francis Xavier University, Jim spent 40 plus years working in the physics department at St. Francis Xavier University, first as a research technician under Dr. E M Clarke and Dr. Antonio Weingartshofer and later years as a senior student lab supervisor. During his StFX years, Jim’s passion was in research, co-authoring a number of research papers along with Dr.EM Clarke, Dr. A Weingartshofer, Dr. B Wallbank, et al. Jim’s outlook on research is summed up in this statement, ""What are you doing?"...I tell them..."I don't know...if I did, it wouldn't be research!""
Jim also was the first operator of the EM Clarke Observatory, a traditional dome-style observatory mounted atop the old science building on campus. The observatory was opened for students as a teaching tool in the late 1970’s. As well, one of Jim’s many skills was as a ham radio operator with the call sign VE100.
Jim developed a passion for music early in life playing the violin and piano. Later, he added guitar and cello to his repertoire as well as singing solos. This was just one of Jim’s many offerings of worship to God both within the local church services and community.
In 1980 Jim met the love of his life, Susan, and they married in 1982. For Sue, Jim truly was a devoted husband and best friend. His passion for research took them on many outings, taking less travelled side roads just to see where they led. Jim loved his family and his friends. He was blessed to have many kind and faithful friends who were at his side supporting him during his times of illness.
Jim displayed a quiet humility that underlined his relationship with God and overall assurance that whatever came at him in life, he was the recipient of an unmerited grace & mercy, that God was still on the throne, and that he was loved by his Heavenly Father. Although Jim had a strong desire to live, that assurance of his Father’s love allowed him to step into eternity peacefully & with confidence.
Jim is survived by his wife of 40 years, Susan (née Shand), his brothers Doug (Marguerite) of Antigonish, and Ken (Sandra) of Bible Hill; his brother-in-law, Glen Sampson; and many amazing nieces and nephews.
He is predeceased by his parents Donald & Rosalie, and his sister Debra Sampson.
Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Jim’s Life will be held 1pm on March 4th at Bethel Community Church in Lochiel Lake. A reception will follow downstairs at the church with the interment service at Bethel Community Cemetery.
Family flowers only please. In lieu of flowers you are invited to consider donations in Jim’s memory made to Bethel Community Church, Samaritan’s Purse - Operation Christmas Child, or Bethel Community Cemetery Fund.
Many thanks are offered to the dedicated staff at the Palliative Care Unit of St. Martha’s Regional Hospital. You (doctors, nurses, cleaning staff, etc) displayed such compassionate and devoted care. You made Jim’s stay away from home so much more pleasant under the circumstances. A special thanks also goes to Jim & Susan’s niece, Karen Clifton, who gave of herself generously in providing love & care for her aunt & uncle during this difficult time.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of C.L. Curry Funeral Home, Antigonish. Online condolences: www.clcurry.com