Minister Benjamin Holmes Bifold

SUNRISE June 25, 1985

SUNRISE September 11, 2021

LIFE REFLECTIONS OF

Benjamin Maurice Holmes affectionately called Ben, was born June 25, 1985 to Arethia (Melvin) Millsap-Whiteside and the Late Pearlie M. Holmes in Carthage, IL. Ben transitioned unexpectedly from his earthly dwelling to his heavenly home September 11, 2021 in Moline, IL .

Ben attended Joliet Grade Schools and graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School, Class of 2003 Rockford, IL. Minister Ben received his Ordination as a COGIC Minster in Rockford, IL. Ben relocated to Joliet, Il where he served as a Minister at Mars Hill Community COGIC under Superintendent Earnest Caldwell. He moved his residency to Moline, IL. He later became a member of Greater Works Ministry, Moline, IL under Pastor Al and Lady LaFayia Barnum.

Ben was an old soul, the first eldest male child (son, grandson and nephew) on his maternal side. He was well loved by his beloved grandmother Jewel and was the apple of her eye.

Ben was a man of God who loved to praise, which he had been doing as a toddler.

Ben was a giver and had a compassionate heart for people. Although Ben faced health challenges he still pushed through with a smile. Ben loved his family and friends that he would assist anyway he could, and he would also let you know “what was up”!

Ben was preceded in death by his father Pearlie M. Holmes, maternal grandparents Attie Jewel Epting and Lee Calvin Millsap.

Ben leaves to cherish his memories to his mother, Arethia (Melvin) Millsap-Whiteside, paternal grandmother Alberta Holmes; maternal siblings, Justice Robinson, Christian (Amanda) Blackwell, Precious Edmond, Mahagany Whiteside, Jordan Whiteside and Amari Whiteside; paternal siblings. A host of aunts, uncles, cousins and friends whom he cherished. Special family and friends, Tavita Nedd and Jonelle Carson.

Of all the special gifts of life however great or small To have you as our Son was the greatest gift of all A special time, a special face a special Son, we can’t replace With an aching heart I whisper low I miss you son and love you so

Love Mom

Psalm 23 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.

He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

Order of Service Saturday, October 2, 2021 | 11:00am Greater Works Church 402 46th Street East Moline, IL Pastor Al Barnum, Eulogist Prophetess LaFayia Barnum, Officiating

Organ Prelude

Processional Clergy & Family

Scripture Old Testament New Testament Pulpit

Prayer Pulpit

Selection

Remarks (2 minutes please) Family & Friends

Selection

Ministry in Dance Felicia Thomas

Life Reflections Prophetess LaFayia Barnum

Words of Comfort Pastor Al Barnum

Benediction

Recessional

“Guardian Angel” You have a Guardian Angel Who watches over you, Everywhere you go And everything you do.

This gentle, silent helper Is there to be your guide To shelter and protect you, And for you to walk beside.

Your Angel will always help you Whenever things go wrong, They’ll be the wings beneath your feet As Life’s path you walk along.

Acknowledgement of Thanks The family of the Benjamin Holmes gratefully acknowledges with sincere appreciation the many acts of kindness, each gesture of sympathy and prayer petitioned on our behalf during this time of sorrow. We are most grateful to God for the gift of friends like you. Your expressions of love have given us strength and inspiration for the facing of this hour.