Verona Maxine Holmes Rachal was born June 5, 1947 in Norfolk, VA to the late William Holmes Sr., and Nancy Holmes. On Saturday September 29, 2018, our beloved angel slipped in the arms of God. She accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized at New Calvary Baptist Church during her early years at the church. Verona was very active in the church she taught Sunday School. She taught classes, helped organize programs and encouraged he youth in their Christian walk. “The loud clapping hat lady” as she was fondly called by the church members became the First Deacon (female) in the history of NBC under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Milton A. Reid. She was committed and a hardworking member. She also visited the sick and shut in often.
Verona was a graduate of Booker T. Washington High School class of 1965. She later attended Norfolk State University and graduated in the 1970 with the degree in Elementary Education. After many years of committed service as a Teacher in the private schools and public schools in Norfolk VA and Philadelphia PA, she decided to retire.
Verona leaves to cherish in her memory; a son Bernardo “Peanut” Johnson of Washington DC; a daughter, Rashege “She She” Johnson-Manley of Norfolk, VA; 3 grandchildren, Keaira “Duckie”, Robert “Heavy Chevy”, and Raylyn “The Professor”; 3 great grandchildren, Kaysen, Donovan, and Ciara, 1 brother John Holmes. Verona was predeceased by her parents William and Nancy Holmes; 2 brothers, William “Lil Bill” Holmes, Irvin “Fruittie” Holmes, 1 sister Thelma “Lukie” HolmesManley.
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FREDDIE BARRON says
October 6, 2018 at 2:25 pmOne of my dearest classmates from Lott Cary Elem., which meant meeting and greeting was always a joy. We were so blessed with your bright spirit and service. Not a loss but a gain. My sincere condolences to the family.
Classmate Freddie Barron.
Beverly Payne says
October 6, 2018 at 6:39 pmMrs. Verona was my late sister best friend and that how our got to love and respect her though my sister. I will miss her sense of humor and her funny laugh. RIP my sister and said hello to my sister Francine❤️❤️❤️❤️
Ann Toms says
October 8, 2018 at 12:11 amSending my deepest condolences to you and your family. I will keep you all in prayer.
Sorrowfully,
The Toms Family
Paula Peebles Bonds says
October 8, 2018 at 12:59 amPlease accept my deepest sympathy for the loss of your Angel. She was a very dear friend to my Grandmother, Father and Aunt. Thank you Deacon Verona for the many kind deeds that you extended to my family throughout the years. Rest easy…
Paula Peebles Bonds on behalf of the Peebles Family
William “Hawkeye” Peebles, Lillie Bernice Parham Peebles, Carolyn Peebles, Dosie Cooper Peebles
HUGHES, RUTH says
October 8, 2018 at 1:07 amRashege and family, I’m so sorry for your loss, sending prayers of comfort to you and your family.