Margaret Swanson Holmes

Margaret Swanson Holmes, 83, passed away on April 11, 2024, in Lexington, KY.

She was born on August 7, 1940, to Sven and Gertrude Swanson and was the youngest of 3 daughters. She graduated High School in 1958 and attended Drake University and earned her teaching degree from Eastern Illinois University in 1962.

She married her spouse, Levi Holmes on August 11, 1962, in Arlington Heights, IL. The couple had 4 children, Allen, Larry, Catherine, and Tim Holmes. Margaret was very dedicated to raising her children and staying involved with their many activities. Their family lived in several states due to job relocations and they retired in Lexington, KY in 1989.

Margaret was very active in volunteering for organizations such as Radio-Eye (reading for the sight impaired) and The Willie Shoemaker Foundation. She loved to golf and enjoyed participating in the Spring Valley Women’s Golf League, as well as bowling leagues during the winter months. She and Levi also loved following the UK sporting events and attending Keeneland horse racing track during the spring and fall meet.

Margaret also loved to travel and visit with family and friends all over the country. She enjoyed hosting guests and celebrating holidays and special occasions. Her smile was contagious and positive energy was felt by anyone in her presence.

Margaret is survived by her spouse, Levi Holmes, son Allen Holmes, daughter & son in law Catherine and Rogers Galloway, son and daughter in law Tim and Elizabeth Isaac Holmes, 4 grandchildren: Taylor Ann Valentine (Drew Valentine), Samantha Galloway, Thomas Holmes, and Lauren Holmes and one Great Granddaughter, Hayden Valentine.

It was Margaret’s wish to be cremated upon her passing and the family will hold a private celebration of her life this summer at her favorite beach vacation spot.