Beth Holmes (nee McClay) – firecracker, flirt, gardener, gym-enthusiast, talented dressmaker, knitter, cook and baker, lover of literature, life and people, adored wife, mum, granny, daughter, cousin and friend – was born in Belfast, Northern Ireland, to Walter and Jean McClay on 5 July 1946 and was big sister to much loved younger brother Walter (who died September 2020).
Beth grew up in a busy house full of love and laughter in east Belfast. She appreciated friendship, fun and style, enjoyed regular family seaside holidays to Groomsport, and began her working life as a secretary with the Belfast Rope Company.
Beth met her husband Tom Holmes while selling poppies for charity door to door, when Tom was studying at Queen’s University. After they married in 1967, Beth and Tom lived for a short time in Limavady and then moved to the coastal town of Portstewart, where they raised their son Gavan and daughter Lesley.
Although Beth had left school early, she had a lifelong love of learning and returned to study A levels in her forties, moving on to complete an English Literature degree at Ulster University, Coleraine – missing a First-Class distinction by just one mark.
Beth continued to share her love of literature by taking up an administrative role in the university’s English and Media Studies department, thriving on supporting both staff and students. She went on to play a central role in managing not just the office, but also a series of successful events, including a symposium at the Riverside Theatre, with keynote speakers including Nobel Prize winning poet and author Seamus Heaney and celebrated Irish poet, playwright and novelist Edna O’Brien.
Beth could bring energy and craic to any room – and was in her element hosting dinners, parties and gatherings. An encouraging and supportive Mum, she became a loving, attentive and great fun Granny to Thom, Emily, Meg and Ozzy – enjoying adventures at the beach, whipping up her delicious treats at a moment’s notice and bringing her trademark sense of mischief to every occasion.
She enjoyed an active retirement, with daily gym sessions with friends, gardening and travelling and walking with Tom. Sadly, Beth’s health began to fail during 2015 and she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Tom’s devotion to his adored wife continued daily until she passed peacefully, surrounded by her family, on 5 January 2026.
Beth is much missed every day – but we hope that her vibrant example of how to give your best to life and the people around you continues to be rooted in her family.
This beautiful Pipal Tree urban forest is an innovative and appropriate living legacy, thanks to Beth’s brother-in-law, Philip Holmes. We are hugely grateful to everyone who has so generously given their support to plant it in memory of our wonderful Mum, Beth Holmes, who did her best, always.
Gavan Holmes and Lesley Doherty
Beth’s first job
Wedding day
Beth, Gavan and Lesley
Beth and Tom with grandchildren
Beth and Tom on holiday in Greece
