Richard Holmes; Obituary, Death: It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Richard John Holmes, a beloved husband, father, colleague, and friend, who peacefully left us on November 13, 2024. Richard was 57 years old and lived in the heart of his community, where he was deeply loved and respected by all who knew him.
Richard was born on March 5, 1967, to the late John and Margaret Holmes. From an early age, Richard’s zest for life, curiosity, and adventurous spirit were evident to all. He grew up in a family that taught him the importance of hard work, kindness, and integrity. After completing his education, Richard pursued a career in the lighting industry, where he became a respected figure and made many lifelong friendships, especially with his colleagues at Kingfisher Lighting, a company that he held dear to his heart.
In 1993, Richard met the love of his life, Elaine, and the two quickly became inseparable. Their connection was immediate, and in 1995, they were married in a beautiful ceremony surrounded by family and friends. Together, Richard and Elaine created a home filled with love, laughter, and mutual respect. They built a life together full of shared interests, mutual support, and devotion. Their love was a shining example of a true partnership, one that many admired and aspired to.
Richard was a proud father to his two children, Oliver and Megan. His love and dedication to his children were unmatched. He was always present for every milestone, every event, and every moment that mattered in their lives. Richard had a special way of making everyone around him feel seen, heard, and valued. His advice, humor, and gentle nature left an indelible mark on his family, and he was especially proud of the young adults they were becoming.
Richard was a man of many passions, and one of his greatest loves was his motorbike. He was known in the community for his love of motorcycles, and he spent much of his free time with fellow motorbike enthusiasts. Richard’s passion for motorbikes was not only a hobby but also a way for him to connect with others and experience the thrill of the open road.
His friends from the motorbike community were a significant part of his life, and their support following his passing was a testament to the bond he shared with them. We would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Chris Day for the beautiful Triumph motorbike hearse that carried Richard to his final resting place, and to Richard’s motorbike friends, who provided the hearse escort on the day of his funeral.
Richard’s family is deeply grateful for the care and compassion shown by Kerry, Emma, and colleagues at Co-op Funeral Care, whose professionalism and support helped guide them through this incredibly difficult time. Their kindness was a comfort to Elaine, Oliver, Megan, and all those who mourn Richard’s loss.
In addition to his family and friends, Richard was fortunate to have had the support of some remarkable individuals in his final days. The Welsh Air Ambulance and the dedicated Intensive Care staff at Glan Clwyd Hospital, Bodelwyddan, Rhyl, provided exceptional care and support. Their expertise and compassion gave Richard the best possible care, and the family is forever grateful for their tireless efforts.
As a family, we are humbled and touched by the incredible generosity shown by friends, family, and colleagues at Kingfisher Lighting, who made donations to the Welsh Air Ambulance in Richard’s memory. A total of £1250 was raised, a testament to the profound impact Richard had on everyone around him. These donations will continue to support the vital work of the Welsh Air Ambulance, helping others in need of life-saving care, just as Richard received during his time of need.
The family would also like to extend their heartfelt thanks to everyone who has provided support, kind words, and comfort during this difficult time. Whether through phone calls, messages, visits, or simply keeping Richard’s memory alive, your kindness has been a source of strength for Elaine, Oliver, and Megan. Richard’s legacy is one of generosity, warmth, and an unwavering dedication to the people he loved.
He was a man who gave freely of his time and energy to those who needed it, whether it was a friend in need or a colleague with a problem to solve. He had an innate ability to bring people together, and his infectious laugh and sense of humor could lift the spirits of anyone around him. Richard was a man who knew how to live life to the fullest, enjoying every moment and making those around him feel valued and appreciated.
Richard’s love for Elaine was unmatched, and his family was his pride and joy. As a father, he was a role model to his children, teaching them not only through words but through his actions. Richard’s memory will live on in the lives of his children, who carry forward the lessons he taught them. They will remember him as a loving father, a loyal husband, and a man who always put family first.
A funeral service in Richard’s honor will be held on November 17, 2024, at St. Mary’s Church, located in Abergele, North Wales, beginning at 11:00 AM. Following the service, family and friends are invited to join the Holmes family at the Abergele Community Hall for a celebration of Richard’s life, where stories, memories, and laughter will be shared in true Richard style. All who knew him are welcome to attend and pay their respects.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Welsh Air Ambulance, an organization that held great significance to Richard. Donations can be made directly via their website or at the funeral service. Richard John Holmes will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and colleagues for years to come. Rest in peace, Richard. You were a true legend in your own right, and the world is a little dimmer without you in it.
