Condolences

• 01/29/2026

  Jennifer Layte

  Whenever we came to visit Barrington when we were kids (and later when I was working at Camp Cedarwood as a young adult), Phil would enthusiastically (and usually with a joke) greet us and make us feel welcome. He came to be an "expected" part of those visits. May God comfort his family as they miss him now, and bring them joy of reunion in the next life.

• 01/28/2026

  Annelise Grosser

  We have wonderful memories of Phil. May God comfort and strengthen you in this loss.

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  01/28/2026

  Elsie Wright

  Phil was the kind of person who had an impact on everyone he met. He was candid, bold, and forthright. I first knew Phil as a fellow BCA parent, as David and our late son, Dan, were classmates. One memory that spanned many years was that Phil would often remind my husband that he "owed him" for the many hours Phil had spent helping Danny and David put together a model of the Titanic! Somehow we ended up with the ship, and one day decades later, Phil presented John with a certificate releasing him from the debt. But much more significantly, Phil was the person who challenged me, as BCA's head of school, to initiate a practice that continued at BCA for at least 25 years. He felt strongly that the BCA board should invite parents and anyone interested to join in prayer before each monthly board meeting. So we did. When Phil's children were students, he came faithfully. After they graduated, the practice continued, even though often only the board members showed up early for the prayer time. But I always remembered Phil's commitment to pray for the school that meant so much to him and his family. It's really touching to me to see BCA designated as the recipient of memorial funds for Phil. To dear Karen, Martha, Allison and David: I am sure you have many, many stories to tell about your husband and dad, who was such a colorful character. Know that his love for you and for our Lord and his bold personality will be a legacy that is long remembered by people who knew him. May the comfort of our heavenly Father give you peace.

• 01/28/2026

  Marie H Buzzi Carreiro

  Dear Karen. Sending comforting hugs and prayers to you my friend 🙏❤️‍🩹

• 01/28/2026

  Terri Yoder

  Dear Holmes family, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Phil was an icon at Barrington Baptist Church and such an influence on all who knew him. I have many wonderful memories of lively SS class discussions and working on performance skits or plays. I'm sure I will meet him again dancing on the streets of heaven. I loved his philosophy of serving with the gifts you have. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Terri Yoder

• 01/28/2026

  Gina Morris

  Forever grateful to have had the chance to call you neighbor and friend. Rest in peace big guy! I will always remember you 🙏🏻❤️