Phillistine Holmes

Phillistine Holmes Hicks, affectionately known as "Collie," was born May 26, 1949, in Vance, South Carolina, the beloved daughter of the late Virginia Oliver (Allen) Reed and Paul Holmes. Phillistine was a beacon of strength, love, and grace. She passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 8, 2025, at the age of seventy-six, surrounded by the love and prayers of her family.

After completing her education in the Orangeburg County public school system, Phillistine relocated to the Bronx, New York. There, she began her professional journey with the Circle Company and became a devoted member of Springfield Baptist Church in Harlem.

Her career path later led her to Brooklyn, New York, where she worked at Print Pak Company. It was there she met the love of her life, Alfonzo Hicks. The two were united in holy matrimony and made their home in Brooklyn. From this union, they were blessed with a daughter, Arkea Shawnea Hicks. While living in Brooklyn, they became active members of Evening Star Baptist Church.

A woman of deep faith and compassion, Phillistine became a certified Home Attendant. She lived her life serving others-always extending a helping hand and an open heart.

Eventually, Phillistine returned home to South Carolina, settling in Hopkins to spend her final chapter of life close to family. She became a devoted member of Progressive Believers Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Gregory B. Cunningham, where she continued to grow in faith and fellowship.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Alphonso Hicks; her daughter, Arkea Shawnea Hicks; two brothers, Johnny L. Holmes and Allen Reed, Jr., and several other beloved family members.

Her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and love her including her four sisters, Matilda (Robert) McClary of Columbia, SC, Patricia Simmons-Boney  of Hopkins, SC, Oneatha King  of Santee, SC, and Alfreda McClary  of Tampa, FL; one brother, Jimmy (Millicent) Reed  of Covington, GA; two sisters-in-law, Amanda Holmes  of Columbia, SC, and Cassandra Reed of Bronx, NY;  five godchildren,  Renee (Chuck) Peterson, Kimberly Land, Nija Land, Alfredrick (Shonda) Simmons, all of Columbia, SC, and Derek Holmes of Jersey City, NJ; and a host of other loving relatives and dear friends, all of whom will dearly miss her.

Phillistine's wisdom, laughter, and unwavering kindness will remain etched in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

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