Obituary of Doris P. Holmes

For 99 years, 7 months, and 17 days, Doris filled her life with the activities and people she loved. She passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 17, 2025 at Crouse Community Center in Morrisville. Doris Pearl Skelton Holmes was born on December 1, 1925 and grew up in Manlius with her brothers Charles and Fordyce and her sister Ruth, who was like a mom to her. She was president of her class at Manlius High School. She spent the “war years” in Washington, D.C. where President Harry Truman waved and spoke to her, while she was amongst a group of her friends, on his way to work at the White House. In retirement, she traveled the world with friends. Cazenovia Fabrics was her life for 36 years from 1969-2005. Doris received many accolades during her lifetime for her work promoting the businesses of Cazenovia, the Historic Business District, Madison County Tourism and Bridals International. Doris and an equally powerful group of women started the business association in the late 1970’s that transformed downtown Cazenovia into what it is today. The legacy of that work continues today from the Tree Lighting & Christmas Walk, the Summer Sidewalk Sales, and many other events throughout the year. Predeceased by her husband Charles, Doris is survived by daughter, Debbie Holmes (David Evanciew); son, David Holmes (Carolyn Holmes); five grandchildren, Sam Holmes, Lauren Ulinski, Lisa Dunn, Kate Jones, and Casey Fee along with seven great grandchildren and her dear friends. We want to thank the entire staff at Crouse Community Center who gave such kind and compassionate care to our mother. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Crouse Community Center Activities Department, 101 South St., Morrisville, NY 13408. There will be no calling hours and a memorial service will be held at 10 a.m., Monday, July 28, 2025 at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 12 Mill Street in Cazenovia where Doris was a member for almost 70 years. A private family burial will follow the service. Condolences for Doris’ family may be left at www.michaelebrownfuneralservices.com.