Paul Roger Holmes

Paul Roger Holmes, a dedicated public servant, loving husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on September 16, 2025. He was 92 years old. 

Born on August 8, 1933, to Ruth (Capellen) and Palmer Holmes, Paul was a man of great character, loyalty, and integrity. He grew up in the farming community of Dows, Iowa and later earned a bachelor's degree in Education from the University of Iowa and a Ph.D. in School Psychology from Peabody College. He served his country for two years in the U.S. Army before embarking on a career in education. 

Paul began his career as a teacher and later became a school district administrator, specializing in planning, research, evaluation, and testing. He worked for over two decades within the Kansas City Missouri school system, where he was instrumental in designing and implementing its court-ordered desegregation plan. Later, he worked for school districts in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Peoria, Illinois. A crusader for equity and justice, he believed deeply in the power of education to create a better world. 

In 1963, Paul married the love of his life, Geraldine "Gerry" (Crouch) Holmes. They shared many beautiful years together until her passing in 2000. In 2003, Paul moved to Lawrence, Kansas, where he enjoyed spending time with family and friends and became an avid Jayhawks sports fan. 

Paul is survived by his son, David, his daughter-in-law, Cheryl, and his grandson, Grant. Paul's only sibling, Lois Holmes, preceded him in death in 2022. His legacy of service and his commitment to his family, friends, and community will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him.