Shelba J Holmes

Shelba J. Holmes, 88, of Dawson, Georgia, passed away Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at her home. She was born March 26, 1937, in Columbus, Georgia.

In keeping with her wishes, she will be cremated and her ashes will be interred with the love of her life, her late husband, Donald E. Holmes.

Mrs. Holmes was the daughter of Clyde and Desma Paramore Cadenhead and was a 1955 graduate of Baker High School in Columbus, Georgia. She later lived in Atlanta, where she enjoyed a successful career in real estate. To everyone who knew her, Shelba was smart, articulate, and spirited—a bit of a firecracker who pursued her passions with determination and cared deeply for the people and places she loved. This spirit was evident both in her lifelong partnership with her husband, Don, and in her successful career in real estate. During her real estate career in Atlanta, she served as President of the Gwinnett Board of Realtors and as Regional Vice President for the Georgia Association of Realtors. She was named Gwinnett Realtor of the Year twice and received recognition from the Georgia Association of Realtors for her leadership and service to the profession.

Following her retirement, she and her husband, Don, moved to Dawson, where they quickly fell in love with the town and the life they built there together. She became very active in the community, especially supporting projects focused on the revitalization and beautification of downtown Dawson.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Donald E. Holmes; her parents, Clyde and Desma Paramore Cadenhead; and her sister, Donna Hollingsworth.

She is survived by her daughter, Kay Coleman (Rob); a brother, Roger Cadenhead (Judy); several grandchildren and nieces; and her beloved cat, Pumpkin, who was a constant and comforting companion. She was a devoted mother whose love and strength will be forever cherished by her daughter.

The family would like to extend sincere thanks to her many friends and caregivers for the love and kindness they bestowed upon her.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date at her home in Dawson.

Memorials may be made in her memory to the Terrell County Historic Preservation Society, P.O. Box 63, Dawson, GA 39842, in support of the preservation and beautification of Dawson.

She leaves behind a legacy of grace, service, determination, and a deep appreciation for community.