Linda Lou "Mikie" Holmes

Linda Lou “Mikie” Schafale Holmes 

Wife, Mother, Grandmother, & Great-Grandmother

Linda Lou “Mikie” Schafale Holmes, age 85, of Marion, Illinois, passed away peacefully on September 2, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones both physically and in spirit.

She was born in Marion in 1940 to George and Martha Schafale. She was joyfully welcomed by her older sister, Sonja. From Sonja, came the nickname “Mikie,” which lovingly stayed with her throughout her life. They later welcome a younger brother, Charlie.

Mikie graduated from Marion High School in 1958. In 1957, while both working at the local Kroger - she as a checker and Lynn as a stock boy- she met the love of her life, Richard “Lynn” Holmes. From that moment on, they became the perfect pair in life, as parents, and in business. They married four years later, in 1961, beginning a lifetime of love and partnership. Together, they welcomed four children: Michelle Lynn Holmes Jennifer Lynn Lincoln, Darren Lynn Holmes, and Nichole Lynn Holmes.

Lynn and Mikie owned and operated Holmes Construction from 1971 until their retirement in 2015, building both a successful business and lasting relationships within the community. Holmes Construction was founded by FE Holmes Senior (Lynn’s grandfather) in 1915, making it a 100-year family legacy. Mikie served as the office manager and vice-president.

Mikie had many hobbies and passions, including ceramics, bowling, playing pinochle, cheering on her children in their activities, and dancing with Lynn. Together, they could draw a crowd to any dance floor they stepped onto.

While she carried many titles in her life, her favorite role was that of grandmother. She treasured every moment spent with her nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren -with another on the way- who ensured life was never dull.

Mikie was never shy about sharing her thoughts, and those who knew her always knew exactly where they stood with her. All of her loved ones know that they were the center of her world, and it felt like the best place to be. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Mikie was preceded in death by her parents, George and Martha Schafale; her brother, Charles Michael Schafale; and her grandson, Hunter Holmes Melvin Lincoln. She is survived by her sister, Sonja Sue Schafale Ortlieb.

“Though the music has paused for now, one day Lynn and Mikie will meet again, hand in hand, and return to the dance floor together—dancing for eternity.”

Arrangements were entrusted to Blue Funeral Home under the direction of Binkley-Ross. Mikie’s Visitation will take place on Sunday, September 7, 2025, from 2pm-4pm at Blue’s Funeral Home located at 1704 North Court Street in Marion, followed by a private family gathering.

Donations can be made in Mikie’s honor to Hospice of Southern Illinois.