Mrs. Jacquelyne Lucky Spence Holmes, aged 95, peacefully transitioned on Thursday, April 24, 2025.  She was born in Pensacola, Florida, to Henry and Ethel Mae Baker Lucky, both of whom preceded her in death.  At the age of eight, she moved to Philadelphia, where she was raised alongside five siblings, all of whom also preceded her in death.

Affectionately known as Jacquie, she shared a devoted and loving marriage with her husband, Dr. Wendell P. Holmes, Jr., who passed away in 2016.

Throughout her life, Mrs. Holmes exemplified leadership, compassion, and an unyielding commitment to civil rights and youth development.  She was a steadfast mentor and entrepreneur, pouring her energy into nurturing young minds and uplifting the communities of Miami and Jacksonville, Florida.  She was especially passionate about the NAACP ACT-SO program, where her dedication led to numerous local and national awards recognizing African American youth for academic and artistic excellence.  Her legacy in ACT-SO remains unparalleled in both Miami and Jacksonville, Florida.

Mrs. Holmes also served on the board of the Urban League of Greater Miami and later the Jacksonville Urban League, always advocating for equity, education, and opportunity.  In 2024, she was honored by both organizations for her years of distinguished service.

A successful entrepreneur, in Miami, she founded Gala Travel Services and was a top-earning certified real estate broker.  Her advocacy extended to economic development through her involvement with the Miami-Dade Trade & Tourism Commission, the Miami Chapter of the NAACP, and as a charter board member of Operation PUSH.

Mrs. Holmes will be remembered for her zest for life, impeccable style and the "Jacquie Walk".  In Jacksonville, she was a 23-year member of THE MOLES, Incorporated, an organization promoting friendship and joy, echoing their motto: "Enjoy Yourself, It's Later Than You Think!"

A woman of deep faith, Mrs. Holmes was a devout Catholic and a dedicated member of Holy Family Catholic Church.  Her passing just four after celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ was significant.  Her earthly mission of a legacy of faith, service and compassion is now entering the next stage of eternal life joining the Lord.

She is remembered with love and admiration by many family members, devoted friends and mentees whose lives she touched.

The family suggests, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Jacquelyne L. Holmes Fund for Distinguished Youth.  Donations Should be made payable to: The Jacksonville Community Foundation, 245 Riverside Avenue, Suite 310, Jacksonville, fl 32202.  Please indicate the gift is in memory of Jacquelyne L. Holmes.

May her memory be a blessing and a continued source of light.