Constantine George 'Connie' Holmes

Constantine George Holmes, affectionately known as Connie, 85, of Isle of Palms, SC, departed this life on Thursday, February 6, 2014 in Charleston, SC, surrounded by his loving wife, children and grandchildren, family members and devoted friends. He was born on Thursday, July 26, 1928 in Edgefield, SC to the late Dora Mary Vlachos Golemis Holmes and the late Constantine George Golemis Holmes. Connie was an energetic entrepreneur, notably with A & N Club, Charleston Wrecking, Momma’s Money and Conco Contracting, who loved life and lived it to the fullest. He loved and cherished his family, whom he always put first. He was passionate about his pets, especially his beloved dog, Churchill. He enjoyed fishing, cooking and music, was an avid cyclist, but more than anything he loved spending time with his family. He was a volunteer football coach for over eight years at St. Andrew's Parks and Playgrounds. Connie was a real estate visionary, maverick and trailblazer. As part of the revitalization of the City of Charleston, Connie, as Charleston’s first demolition contractor, spear-headed the demolition of many of Charleston’s buildings which helped pave the way for Charleston today. Connie was the original reclamation pioneer, salvaging many beautiful architectural elements of Charleston. His family will remember him as being a generous and humble man who touched many lives. The original 'Godfather of Cool' was a true legend and will be sorely missed by all who knew him. Connie is survived by his wife of 35 years, Colette Basha Holmes of the Isle of Palms; his children: Chris Holmes Thomas (Horace Berthney “Bubba” Thomas, Jr.); Michael Constantine Holmes Golemis; George Constantine Holmes; and Simone Constantine Holmes all of Charleston, SC; five grandchildren: Jennifer Gideon Thomas; Christopher Berthney Thomas (Crystal); Kiefer Montana Thomas; Coal Constantine Golemis and Bernadette Marie Golemis all of Charleston, SC; four great-grandchildren: Antoinette Thomas; Lucian Thomas; Bailee Rose Kittle, and Merrick Berthney Thomas all of Charleston, SC; many nieces and nephews; and the mother of Chris, Michael, George and Lisa, Lucy Buero Holmes of Charleston, SC. Connie was preceded in death by his parents, siblings and his beloved daughter, Lisa Bernadette Holmes. A funeral service will be held at The Church of the Holy Cross, 2520 Middle Street, Sullivan's Island, SC 29481 on Tuesday, February 11, 2014, at 4PM, with Trevor Spencer officiating. The family will receive friends at the church, one hour before the service. In lieu of flowers Memorial donations may be made to Pit Bull Rescue. Arrangements have been entrusted to McALISTER-SMITH FUNERAL HOME, MT PLEASANT CHAPEL, 1520 RIFLE RANGE RD., MT PLEASANT, SC (843) 884-3833. Expressions of sympathy may be viewed or submitted online at www.McAlister-Smith.com.

Visitation:
Tuesday, February 11, 2014