Billie Jean Holmes was born on Friday, May 8, 1942 in Clarksville, Montgomery County, Tennessee, the daughter of the late Ernest Edward Merriweather and Maragret Killebrew.. In addition to her parents, her husband, Oliver Holmes, Sr.; daughter, Paula Neal; two grandsons: Jerry Neal and Charles “Lil Charlie” Merriweather; devoted friends: Stella Mae Collins, Betty Holmes and Jesse Mae preceded her in death.

She accepted Jesus Christ as her personal Lord and Saviour at an early age at Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church. Her favorite scripture was “Psalm 23: The Lord is my shepherd..”

Billie was a graduate of historic Burt High School, Class of 1960, where she was a cheerleader and ran track. She enjoyed employment with Clarksville Manor Nursing Home and retired after many years of dedicated service.

On Thursday, April 13, 1972, Billie united in holy matrimony with the love of her life, Oliver Holmes, Sr.

Billie loved spending time with her family and friends. She always had a smile on her face and a place for you to lay your head if you needed it. Still, she would always let you know if you were in the wrong. She also loved playing bingo. Later in life, she opened up “Lil Billies” in her home; a place for family and friends to come and enjoy each other’s company. All who knew and loved her will sorely miss her presence and beautiful smiling face.

On Tuesday, August 18, 2026, the Lord called Billie home. 

She leaves to cherish precious memories her daughters: Ernestine Merriweather and Frankie (Dee) Jenkins, all of Clarksville, TN; sons: Anthony Eldridge, South Bend, IN, Kronski (Linda) Merriweather, Charlie (Treva) Merriweather and Oliver Holmes, Jr., all of Clarksville, TN; 19 grandchildren, 33 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild; devoted friends: Bobby Harrison and Ava Northington and a host of cousins and friends.