NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — John James Holmes Jr., 96, of North Adams, Mass., died Monday, January 29, 2018, at Williamstown Commons.

He was born in North Adams, Mass., on October 31, 1921, son of John James and Lena (Morris) Holmes. He attended local schools including the Drury High School. John was a veteran of World War II and served in the US Army Air Corps in New Guinea, Okinawa and the Philippines.

John first worked at Cornish Wire Co. After the war, he began working with Betti Oil Company and later worked with Hayden Oil. He was last employed by Ted Pierce Oil Co. until his retirement.

John loved to sing and also enjoyed walking and jazz music. He was a communicant of St. Elizabeth of Hungary Church.

Survivors include his wife of 70 years, Jeannette C. (Lanoue) Holmes, whom he married on June 14, 1947; one daughter, Jacqueline A. Geoffrion and her husband, Louis, of Adams, Mass.; one son, James C. Holmes of North Adams; three granddaughters, Jessica Lynn Tatro and her husband, Ejay, Stephany Onorato and her husband, Greg, and Allyson Holmes; three great-grandchildren, Rylee Tatro, Reed Tatro and Macy Onorato; and nieces and nephews.  

Two sisters and one brother are deceased, including Constance Perham, Helen Hinkell and Robert Holmes.

Funeral notice: A Liturgy of Christian Burial for John Holmes will be celebrated Friday, February 2, 2018, at 11 a.m. at St. Elizabeth of Hungary Church.  Burial will follow in Southview Cemetery.  

There are no calling hours.  Memorial donations may be made to PopCares in care of Flynn & Dagnoli-Montagna Home for Funerals, Central Chapel, 74 Marshall St., North Adams, MA 01247.