Mary Alice Wilkins Holmes

Mary Alice Wilkins Holmes, 95 of Sanford peacefully passed away Tuesday May 6, 2025. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am Saturday May 10th at First Presbyterian Church. The family will greet friends after the service.

Mrs. Holmes was born in Sanford, a daughter of the late Lucian Perryman Wilkins and Sarah Presson Wilkins. She was preceded in death by her husband Gabriel “Gabe” Holmes and her sister, Sarah Perryman Wilkins. Mary Alice was a 1947 graduate of Sanford High School and a 1951 graduate of Duke University. She was a lifelong member and Elder Emeritus of First Presbyterian Church, where she served in many capacities over the years. She answered the call to serve others whether it be through being a 100 plus gallon blood donor, serving her church serving the School Board, the Board of Elections, teaching school, Highway to Healing, the Bread Basket or through Meals on Wheels. Apart from community service her heart was happiest outdoors.

Mrs. Holmes is survived by daughters, Sally Prickett (Bubby), and Susan Della Porta (Al); son Bucky Holmes (Billy); and her beloved dog, Buffy; grandchildren, Cameron Dykes (Rachel), Ashley P Cuttino (Brad), Beth P Holder (Stokley), Lee Prickett III (Meredith), Katherine Della Porta, Laura King (Zac), Al Della Porta Jr (Lindsay), Sarah McVeigh (James), and Michael Della Porta (Emma); and many dearly loved great grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that contributions be made to First Presbyterian Church, 203 Hawkins Ave, Sanford, NC 27330; or to the charity of one’s choice.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to the caregivers of Gentiva Hospice for their exceptional compassion and care.