
Obituary of Dr. John Melburn Holmes
Dr. Mel Holmes, respected doctor, beloved husband, brother, uncle, and friend passed away peacefully at home on January 26, 2025, in his 82nd year. Born on July 11, 1943, to Roberta and Clifford Holmes, his vibrant and kind spirit brought joy and warmth to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
Equipped with a razor-sharp wit, he had a talent of capturing moments, always ready to create lasting memories with his family, friends, and patients.
Dr. Holmes grew up in Kingston, Ontario, where he attended medical school at Queen’s University graduating in the class of 1968. Upon graduation, he started his career in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, where he quickly established a reputation as a trusted colleague and an empathetic doctor focused on delivering compassionate care to his patients.
Seeking refuge from the harsh Canadian winters, Dr. Holmes began exploring opportunities in warmer climates. This search led him to his forever home in Roanoke. In 1978, he secured a practice, packed up his belongings and headed south to Alabama.
After several years working to establish his practice in Roanoke, Dr. Holmes met his partner Tommy Pike. In 1981, they partnered with the Lafayette Nursing Home, where he honed his style of warm and compassionate care that would become his trademark, forever holding dear the relationships with employees and residents until his passing.
Survivors include: one sister, Marilyn Christenson (Jerry) of Ontario; two nephews, John Christenson (Janice) and Andrew Christenson, both of Ontario; and two nieces, Anne Christenson of Ontario and Ruth Christenson. He was preceded in death by his parents; his husband, Tommy Pike and a nephew, Matthew Christenson.
A service will be held at Quattlebaum Funeral Chapel (319 College Street, Roanoke, AL) on Friday, January 31, 2025, at 11:00 AM with Mark Phillips officiating, The family will receive friends at the funeral home beginning at 10 AM before services begin on Friday.
Memorials may be floral.