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Susie In loving memory of

Susie Holmes-
Supreme Bethel Honored Queen 1999-2000



May 10, 1981 - June 7, 2000

(Click on pictures for an enlarged image)

Susie
Hello everyone
This page is dedicated to Susie Holmes. She was truly a joy to be around, and that is why I would like everyone who knows Susie to submit a funny story, happy memory or interesting fact about her. Also, if anyone has any good pictures of Susie, please email them to me, and I will put them up on this page.
Thanks everyone!
-Tracy (E-mail: tray6@uwm.edu)

Two articles about Susie in the Las Vegas newspaper:
Bethel 5, IOJD
632 East Charleston Blvd.
Las Vegas NV 89104.

When she was in Kansas for the SG's official visit, we had a serious snow storm. Susie was afraid of the snow and all that goes with it. One of our Kansas Job's Daughters (Ali Thomas) took Susie and her chair and was pushing her across the sidewalk. Susie was so afraid that she would fall or the chair would get stuck, Ali told her she would only fall once and Ali would pick her up dust her off and put her and the chair back to rights. Susie was not amused!!!!! Susie was worried that her "tanks" would freeze and there would not be enough oxygen to get her through the weekend. We just told her the old Kansas theory, "If you don't like the weather right now, wait a few minutes and you will get something you do like". That didn't happen but we had a few good laughs trying to explain it to her.
Her bright smile and sunny disposition will be missed in our Job's Daughters world.

-Judy Masters, PHQ
Vice Supreme Guardian

During the Supreme Visit to Queensland, some of us locals took all the foreigners to the zoo to cuddle a koala and feed a kangaroo. While walking around the different enclosures, we passed a donkey. On the gate read a sign to effect of, "Hi my name is....and I'm currently looking for my perfect mate". When Mrs. Holmes innocently wheeled Susie a little too close to the frisky donkey, he decided that Susie was the one for him! The donkey ee-orred at the top of his voice and proceeded to sneeze all over Susie and all those standing too close. Each time Susie looked like making a quick exit, the donkey would sneeze, spit, or ee-orr a little more. For the rest of the trip, Susie was the butt of many of our jokes. We still reminisce about the experience and wonder if the donkey will miss her as much as we all do.
Susie's beaming smile lit up the Brisbane International Airport upon her arrival, and the city hasn't been as beautiful since the Supreme Guardian and her entourage left in March 2000.
We love you Susie.

-Carmen Wilson PHQ
Miss Queensland Job's Daughter 1999-2000

Susie always had a smile on her face and something nice to say to everyone. She would talk to anyone and make them feel special. She was a true Job's Daughter.

-Sarah Broadaway
Supreme Bethel Reresentative to New Mexico

Susie always could make me smile. She was a wonderful person!

-Victoria Starks
PHQ, SB Rep to Michigan, GB Rep to Ontario
Bethel 24 Hopewell, VA

When I saw Susie's pictures on the website, tears came to my eyes as I suddenly realized that I had the pleasure of meeting Susie and Mrs. Holmes in Long Beach, California, at Grand Bethel of California in June 1999. Susie thanked me, as Bethel Guardian of Bethel No. 4, Sacramento, for the way in which our Daughters had welcomed and encouraged one of our own Daughters who is confined to a wheelchair. Susie had noticed that we had done everything possible to help our Daughter participate in the variety show and every other part of Job's Daughters. Susie appreciated that kind of friendship, love, and caring. In spite of her own lifelong challenges and difficulties, Susie did not dwell on them. Instead, she radiated the joy that comes from sharing the bond of Job's Daughters. Farewell, Susie! Till we meet again.

-Donna Fairchild
Grand First Messenger, Bethel Guardian, Bethel No. 4,
Past Bethel Guardian, Bethel No. 9, Majority Member, Bethel No. 237, all of Sacramento, California

The Daughters of Bethel #9 of North Vancouver, BC, Canada, send our deepest sympathy and condolences to the friends, family of Supreme Bethel Honoured Queen SusanAnn Sky Holmes and to the Daughters of Las Vegas Bethel #5.

-Heather Kendrick
Honoured Queen-Elect
Bethel #9

SusanAnn Sky Holmes,
Supreme Bethel Honored Queen - International Order of Job's Daughters
SusanAnn Sky Holmes, ("Susie") isn't just another Nevada teenager -- she's the new Supreme Bethel Honored Queen of the International Order of Job's Daughters, representing five countries. A Past Honored Queen and current Fifth Messenger of Las Vegas Bethel #5, Susie attended the Job's Daughters annual Supreme Session in Michigan in early August serving as the outgoing Supreme Bethel Junior Princess. "It was awesome to represent Nevada and visit around the Order and to sit in the East at the Supreme Session," said the then "Princess Susie".

Most folks remember Susie long after they meet her. At 90 lbs, just over 4-1/2 feet, pulling an oxygen tank, and armed with an infectious smile and incredible sparkle, Susie's positive attitude on life generates lots of smiles and laughter.

Susie has been a member of Job's Daughters for five years and is 18 years old. She joined Job's Daughters at age 13, following in the footsteps of her mother and grandmother. She missed joining at age 11 due to her medical condition. She remembers declaring to her mother the night before her initiation that she, "wasn't going to join!" Two short months later, she confided that she didn't realize there were so many "good girls" in one spot. One of the Shriner's kids, Susie has Gaucher's Disease, a very rare genetic disease that results from missing an enzyme that allows old blood cells to be completely removed from the body. This "storage disease" has led to over 23 surgeries on almost every major organ of her small body and a stabilized spine, resulting in her short height.

Currently Susie is receiving the missing enzyme through regular infusions and her condition has stabilized except for her lungs, thus the ever-present need for oxygen. Susie has progressed through school in regular fashion (in spite of the surgeries and classes through "homebound schooling" and a 50% reduced class schedule since junior high). She is a senior Graphic Design major at the Advanced Technologies Academy in Las Vegas, a public magnet school of limited enrollment, where she earned all As last semester. Currently, Susie is "on leave" from school so that she may travel and represent her beloved Job's Daughters' Order. She decided that she'd rather be a "Millennium Queen" than a millennium graduate.

Other than Job's Daughters, Susie enjoys socializing with and supporting the DeMolays. She has served as Vegas DeMolay Princess and Oasis DeMolay Princess and Sweetheart. Oasis DeMolay recently honored her at their installation in July and she now proudly wears her beautiful Past Sweetheart pin on her Job's Daughters ribbon of special pins.

While other teenagers are watching MTV, Susie's favorite shows are home decorating, home improvement, and the cooking channels. Her dream is to finish college, have an art-related career, and someday have a Martha Stewart Christmas.

Susie is an only child in a family of "onlies." Her maternal grandparents and fraternal grandmother (all over 80) live with her and her parents. She jokes that when she drives her grandparents around she'll sport a "Seniors On Board" sign in her car window. She attends church at University United Methodist Church in Las Vegas. She states that it is her "church family" whose prayers have lifted her through all the surgeries.

To be eligible for a Job's Daughter Supreme Bethel line office, a Daughter must be at least 16 years of age, a Past Honored Queen of her Bethel, and have submitted an acceptable letter of intent co-signed by her parents stating her desire and plans if chosen. At the Supreme Session, the name of the State is first drawn. Nevada had a one in 63 chance of being drawn. Susie then had a one in two chance of being drawn. Was she surprised? YES! Is it almost overwhelming? YES!

Susie has now appointed her mother her official secretary/travel agent/banker. And traveling has already begun. The Supreme itinerary is very complete, extensive, and expensive. Couple that with the oxygen needs, planning gets very complicated at times. Susie is upbeat and is representing Nevada with a sparkle! She was initiated into Sunrise Chapter # 28, O.E.S., in Henderson on September 28th (sandwiched in between official visits to Salt Lake City and Phoenix) , just in time to be a new member at Nevada's Grand Chapter OES meeting in Reno on October 4th.

For her motto for the year Susie has chosen "God chooses what you go through, YOU choose how you go through it " and the theme, "The power of dreams, the magic of youth, the joy of life!" When one looks at our Nevada teenager Susie, you realize that truer words were never spoken.

- taken from the Nevada Grand Lodge's website (www.nvmasons.org/special.html) written right after Susie was installed as SBHQ

In December, Susie was able to make the trip to Maryland for our Supreme Visit weekend. She captured everyone with her bubbling personality and her never-ending gift of gab. Susie was the center of attention the entire weekend and we were honored to have her and Tracy with us. After the Supreme Visit weekend, Susie stayed at my house an extra evening, it was then I learned that she was Martha Stewart's number one fan. Every conversation we had from that point on usually ended with the phrase "And it's a good thing." in the monotone imitation of Martha. Then we would giggle and Susie would start up the conversation again. From that point on when ever our paths would cross the "And it's a good thing" phrase would burst from our mouths at the oddest times of the conversation. Hey what's a good laugh between friends and Jobie sisters and it's a good thing.

-Mom Kathy Morgan, PHQ, PGG of MD 1999-2000

I had the privilege of meeting Susie in Boise. We were attending Supreme Guardian Valerie's Reception this past fall. I had heard Bill Smith speak so highly of Susie through the years and felt as though I knew her and had hoped that I would be able to speak to her. As I was checking out she and Miss IJD Tracy were in the lobby and we then met. She was tired, but gave me one of her "light up the room" smiles - a mental picture that I'll always carry with me. This was at the end of the weekend's festivities and Susie must have been exhausted, but there she was, listening to me explain just why I wanted to meet her, and most successfully hiding her exhaustion. Susie was a role model for all Job's Daughters - Daughters as well as adults. We will all miss her. I count myself fortunate that I was indeed able to meet her personally

- Dolly Maxwell, PHQ, MM
Surpeme Third Messenger

During my term last year as Grand Representative to Washington, I met Susie at Washington's Jobie Weekend. I always carried my Scrapbook which has spaces for the Officers, Members, and Adults of Each Bethel in Washington State. It also has spaces for the Grand Bethel Officers and Grand Guardian Council members. It had no space for Supreme Bethel, so Susie very nicely wrote on the Grand Bethel page: "Supreme Bethel Honored Queen" drew a line next to it and signed on the line. I will treasure meeting Susie, such a nice and fun person.

-Elizabeth M. Lehrman
1st Messenger, Bethel 63, Western Springs, Illinois
Honorary State Junior Princess
Grand Representative to Washington, 1999-2000

Susie was one of the nicest people I ever met. She was always smiling and happy to be around the guys. She was one of the best Sweethearts Oasis Chapter ever had. Susie always knew how to brighten your day whenever you felt down. She was a great person and we will all miss her.

-Billy Harris
Sribe, Oasis Chapter

I have wonderful memories of Susie, I have been truly blessed to have known this wonderful young woman. Tracy and Susie attended Minnesota's Grand Bethel Fall Inn, in Willmar Minnesota. With all of the work we had to do for the Miss Minnesota Pageant, Alida and I had very little sleep. Sheryl Miller was very worried about me driving home, she was afraid that I would fall asleep. When I told her that I was driving Susie to the airport all of her worries faded, she knew that her quick wit and flare for the dramatic would keep me awake.

We were about 45 minutes from the Minneapolis airport when Susie realized that she had forgotten the key for you oxygen tank. Alida panicked and we stopped at a gas station where they were nice enough to borrow us a pliers to change her tank. I was worried about the layover that she would have on the way home, so I stopped at an emergency room and asked for help. They sent out a very good looking intern to look at her tanks. Susie's response at seeing this young man was " Wow Alida, you were right, your Mom does find all the good looking men for you." She then proceeded to ask him to join us for lunch at the airport. He said he would have been delighted to if he didn't have to work.

Susie made the best of every situation. She brightened my life. The Bican Family will truly miss this wonderful young woman. I will always have warm and loving memories whenever I think of her.

-Linda Bican, BG #85 Shakopee, Minnesota

My name is Heleena Jorgensen from Bethel#2 Chermside Australia, I met Susie briefly when the Supreme Team came out here, I had to poem sent to me and when I read it, it reminded me of Susie.

Those Who Touch Our Lives

Every special person who touches our life,
Leaves their own unique mark on our heart.
A mark which can never be chizzled away,
Even if the years eventually pull us apart.

We can take on their expressions and such,
The more we share of ourselves together.
It's those little things about another person,
Which can remain a part in us forever.

People who we have met throughout our life,
Become a part of the person who we are today.
We learn and we grow from the relationships;
Each one touching us, in it's own special way.

We laugh about spending too much time together,
When we think we have become like each other.
But it just shows how much we've been touched,
By the relationship we have found with another.

Those special people who can touch our lives,
Are like precious jewels amongst life's treasures.
They shine on us and leave a lasting impression;
An unique mark on our heart;
A gift without measures.
            - by Pamela Hall.

She was an inspiration to all who met her.
-Heleena Jorgensen

Susie was one of the most genuinely kind people I have ever met. She was diagnosed with a fatal disease, and she choose to make the best of it. I have never seen Susie in a bad mood, have one bad thing to say, to tell you the truth, I don't think she was capable of thinking bad thoughts. She always knew how to brighten you day with her smile. She was a good friend with an immeasurable amount of courage, and will be missed.

-Athena Harris, Grand Immortality and Jr. GEC, Daylite #22, International Order of the Rainbow for Girls

I am Alan Brown, Associate Grand Guardian of Job's Daughters of Kansas. During the Supreme visit to Kansas in January 2000 we were priviledged to present Susie with her first ever snowfall. It wasn't much by our standards, only a dusting, but she was so awed and thrilled that it really made all of us marvel at the joy that the simple things and the things that we take for granted can bring to our lives if we just "stop to watch the snow fall".

- Alan Brown AGG of Kansas

I had the pleasure of meeting Susie on three different occasions. The first time was at Jamboree. She was smiling and laughing all the time. Her face really lit up the room.

The second was at Grand Bethel Fall-In, in Minnesota. She had come with Tracy to see Alida out as Miss Minnesota Job's Daughter. I remember trick or treating at her room. She and Tracy got into a whipped cream fight. It was all over the room. She got Tracy covered in whipped cream. I laughed so hard.

The last time was at Alida Bican's reception as Miss International Congeniality. Susie shared stories about Alida's fear of the airplane bathroom and how much fun she had traveling with her. After the dinner, Susie became the queen of the dance floor.

Susie gave each of us a part of her self, each time we met. she was an inspiration to anyone that met her. her smile and laugh will be with me forever. She was a girl that no one will ever forget.

- Carolyn Duven
Miss Wisconsin Congeniality 1999-2000

  I remember her coming to the Virginia Heritage Weekend. Susie, Alida, and Tracy did a little skit and a cute song! I also remember that she liked lemonheads. When we went bowling, she was in my lane and since she couldn't actually bowl, she "blessed" the ball by rubbing it or something like that. She was a beautiful, sweet person, inside and out.

- Jobie Love,
Jennifer Kern
PHQ, Bethel #52, Herndon, VA

The Officers and member of the Order of DeMolay of Canada send there condolences to the family, friends of Supreme Bethel Hounred Queen Miss SusanAnn Sky Holmes. When I had first learned of this news I became very sad to what had happend That evening the members of Golden Ears Chapter had a moment of Silence for Susie. If there is anything that myself or any member of Candian DeMolay can do please do not hesitiate to ask us.

- Nicholas Biss Canadian DeMolay Parliament Master Councillor Order of DeMolay of Canada

I'll never forget Supreme Session last year when Susie gave her report. All the things she pulled out from behind the podium. She had us all rollin' on the floor with laughter. She will be very much missed!

- Laura Jordan
SB Representative to Saskatchewan

I first met Susie at this last Supreme Session in Grand Rapids, Michigan. I was there representing British Columbia as Miss BCJD. Susie and I were introduced following the Supreme Bethel Installation. It was amazing to learn about the struggles that Susie had overcome, and made her way to being the highest Honoured Job's Daughter. She was a wonderful person and I hope that all Job's Daughters across the world will use Susie's life and accomplishments to so strengthen their own lives, with the courage to know that the sky is your limit no matter what your obstacles may be.

Till we meet again Susie,

Jobie Love Jen Williams, PHQ #36 Victoria, BC
Miss BCJD 1999-2000

I was not fortunate enough to meet Susie, but I feel that the International Order of Job's Daughters has lost a wonderful young lady that has represented our organization with diginity, honor, and grace. She didn't let her oxygen tank stop her in any way. She just kept on going and going! Kinda like the energizer bunny! She sent a message to all of us..that no matter what..don't let something so small as an oxygen tank hold you back. She inspires me to continue to do everything that I have ever wanted to do and not to let anything stop me.

- Brandy James, Jr.PHQ #39 Newton Falls, OH

I am a PABG of Bethel 3 in Las Vegas and Had come to know Susie. She was the hit of Nevada Grand Lodge last November and Grand Master Jeff Steubin helped Susie to aquire some adult help for the Bethel, though I think Susie did pretty well on her own.

I had the following sent to me tonight and think that it really applied to Susie.

  HOW DO YOU LIVE YOUR DASH?

   I read of a man who stood to speak
   At the funeral of a friend
   He referred to the dates on her tombstone
   From the beginning...to the end.

   He noted that first came her date of birth
   And spoke the following date with tears,
   But he said what mattered most of all
   Was the dash between those years. (1981 - 2000)

   For that dash represents all the time
   That she spent alive on earth...
   And now only those who loved her
   Know what that little line is worth.

   For it matters not, how much we own;
   The cars...the house...the cash,
   What matters is how we live and love
   And how we spend our dash.

   So think about this long and hard...
   Are there things you'd like to change?
   For you never know how much time is left,
   That can still be rearranged.

   If we could just slow down enough
   To consider what's true and real,
   And always try to understand
   The way other people feel.

   And be less quick to anger,
   And show appreciation more
   And love the people in our lives
   Like we've never loved before.

   If we treat each other with respect,
   And more often wear a smile..
   Remembering that this special dash
   Might only last a little while.

   So, when your eulogy's being read
   With your life's actions to rehash...
   Would you be proud of the things they say
   About how you spent your dash?

- G. William Casteel, PABG#3
Past Grand Master, Nevada

     I first officially met Susie when I traveled to Nevada as Miss International Job's Daughter 1997-1998. Susanna Alley, SBHQ 1997-1998 and I had a sleepover with Susie in her own bedroom. Just by looking at her bedroom, no one would doubt what a dedicated Jobie Susie was. She had her Honored Queen statue on her dresser and her Jobie afghan draped over her bed.
     Susie and I shared a few short jokes, and laughed at our height challenges (I'm only 5 ft tall). Then we shared all kind's of Jobie stories. Susanna Alley and I also had a wonderful time trying to find Susie in her house when she would suddenly dissappear. All we had to do was follow the oxygen tubes and sooner or later we would find her. Hide and seek wasn't exactly Susie's strong suit. We were all giggling the entire time.
     At one particular time Susie made a comment that made me bowl over with laughter while at the same time gave me a new respect for Susie's optimism. She said in jest, "My worst reality is that I will have to live with my parents for the rest of my life." As any teenager would know, living with parents when you are going through the teenage years is not exactly an easy accomplishment. It's probably not easy for the parents either.
     During our Supreme Visit , the Holmes' family wanted to make our stay very memorable. They took us to see some of the Las Vegas sights. Because Susanna Alley was such a Star Trek fan, we went to see the Star Wars exhibit at one of the casinos. After looking through all of the memorabilia, we got on to the star trek ride (one of those little bus looking things that closes and shows a video on the screen while tossing you in every which direction). Susie couldn't go on the ride, but she was right there when we got off of it on the other side. She was acting like she was our special tour guide and requested that we exit and follow her.
     The entire time that we spent with Susie was a blessing. When I became tired and lacked drive to smile and greet people on my travels, all I had to do was think of Susie Holmes. I believe that in some way she gave me some of her own strength.
     I knew that Susie had a great drive and wanted to accomplish great things. That is why I was so excited when she was drawn as the SBHQ at the 1999 Supreme Session. I was sitting just a few seats down from Barbra Holmes when Susie's name was drawn. I had tears in my eyes and a huge smile on my face when I asked Barbra if she was prepared for what lie ahead. She said something to the fact that she was sure that Susie was probably more prepared than she was.
     Susie was a great blessing to all whom she came in contact with. She was energetic and inspiring as well as strong and corageous. She looked no older than a new initiate, but held more maturity and wisdom than a Supreme Guardian. I feel blessed that I knew her and was inspired to be better because of her.

In loving memory,
Amber Volner, PHQ
Miss International Job's Daughter 1997-1998

I first met Susie in Australia at Supreme Session. I was just picked as the new Supreme Bethel Junior Princess and she was one of the first people to come up to me and congratulate me. Her smile was one of her best features and she always spread positve energy to everyone she was around. I know she's still here in spirit and she will always be here. She had a lot to offer and I'm sure the things that she did will live on through eternity. She was very special and everyone in Job's Daughters should be proud to have met her!

Job's Love,
Lauren M. Engelke
PHQ 7 and 10, PGBHQ of DE

I wanted to take the time to share my own personal Susie story. I met Susie in April at Utah's Grand Session. I was in charge of keeping time during the drill competition and Susie came and sat with me on the stage. During the breaks between drills we got to know eachother. She told me all about Nevada Jobies and I told her about Utah. She knew that I was to be competing the next day for Miss Utah Job's Daughters and as we were going our seperate ways for the rest of the day she wished me the best of luck in the pagaent. The time I knew Susie was brief but she touched my life deeply. I know that I will never forget the lessons taught by Susie. She taught us all about the power of dreams and now, every time I look at her Supreme Bethel Honored Queen's pin on my sash I will remember that lesson and know how privileged I was to be able to have Susie touch my life

- Christa Nickas
Jr. Past Honored Queen #3 Price Utah
Miss Utah Congeniality

    I frist met Susie at the Grand Lodge of Nevada when she and Miss Nevada Job's Daughters made a plea for two Master Masons to come forward to be the Associate Guardians for two of the Bethels or the Bethel would have to close. Being the "crazy" Grand Master from Minnesota, I assured her that before the Grand Lodge closed, she would have two Master Masons. You'll have to talk with the Jobbies in Nevada to find out how it happened and how it turned out.

    Since that day, Susie and I became instant friends and I was excited to see her when she came to Minnesota and when I saw her at the Imperial Shrine and Conference of Grand Master's. She said many times that she wanted to kidnap me from Minnesota and I'm sure she would have figured out a way to do that.

    As Grand Master, I had the opportunity to meet many fine people from all over the world, but I can not remember one person who had such an impact on me as Susie. Her constant positive attitude and great sense of humor were an inspiration to me and I'm sure everyone who had the pleasure of meeting her. A wonderful young lady who I will be looking forward to seeing again in heaven.

- Jeffry N. Lewis
Past Grand Master of Masons in Minnesota

To my Susie Q...

The Brightest Star in the Night

There exists a bright star in the night,
That seems to burn life more than any other
It's beauty takes ones breath away,
Like a beautiful butterfly in flight

A rainbow of colors for all who see,
It is a painting of how life should be
The strength of flight is apparent, yet
Its outward essence is only the key

For inside lies something much greater
A light that burns with love and kindness
A light that wants to share all the wonder
And live life now, rather than later

And as hard as it may seem,
As much as we would fight
The time will come to turn the key
And release the star we love so much
So that the beam so beautiful
Would be seen and felt by all as
The Brightest Star in the Night.

-by Jenny Thomas, member
Bethel # 5, Las Vegas, Nevada

I had the great honor of meeting Susie 2 years ago at Supreme Session. I was retiring as Supreme Bethel Junior Princess and Susie was chosen to take my place. I remember being amazed at her dedication and her positive outlook on life. I went to her room to give her some things and talk to her about some things and we sat there so long with our moms and talked about Job's and school and our families. I will truly miss Susie, but I can say that her life will be such an inspiration to everyone!!! I think this world is a much better place because of Susie Holmes. My prayer is that we could all possess one half of the strength and courage that Susie did, just think of how wonderful this world would be.

- Melissa Hampton
PHQ, Ohio Miss Job's Daughter 1999-2000

     My Grand Master, M.W. Bro. Emmanuel Anthony, P.S.M., has asked me, on behalf of the brethren of this jurisdiction, to pass on our sincerest condolences in relation to the passing of Susan Ann Holmes, Supreme Bethel Honoured Queen, on 7th June.

     We were all very impressed by this young lady when she visited us here in Queensland earlier this year and we have been greatly saddened by her loss.

     It would be appreciated if you could pass on the condolences of our Grand Master and the brethren of this jurisdiction to your Supreme Bethel at the first possible opportunity.

With best wishes,

Yours fraternally

Graham R. White, O.A.M, P.A.G.M.
Grand Secretary.

Sent by Valerie Downes
PGG of Qld, PJP

I had the pleasure of meeting Susie at the Conference of Grand Masters and Grand Secretaries of North America in Savannah Georgia last February. Although she was obviously very tired she still had a big smile and a kind word for everyone.

She is indeed someone that every young lady can look up to.

-George H. Stablein Sr.
Grand Secretary
Grand Lodge of Arizona
PAGG, Arizona 1993-1994

I met Susie at Supreme Session in Michigan. Her light truly shone for the good of all!

Matthew 14:2-3
   In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would not have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go to prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there you may be also.

He Only Takes the Best

God saw she was getting tired
and a cure was not to be.
So he put his arms around her
and whispered, "Come with me."

With tear-filled eyes we watched her
suffer and fade away.
Although we loved her deeply,
we could not make her stay.

A golden heart stopped beating,
hard-working hands put to rest.
God broke our hearts to prove to us
he only takes the best.

Stephanie Lynn Bray
Past Grand Bethel Honored Queen 1999-2000

Hi, my name is Becky Herman and I am SB Rep to Montana. I was lucky enough to meet Susie at Supreme and at a few Supreme Visits like the one in Montana when she said that her and Tracy Dahl needed to switch bodies so she could have the adult body and a maturity to match while Tracy could have the little kid body with a maturity level to match (and like the Backstreet Boys). And the time I bought the Las Vegas Minnie Mouse and Tracy and Alida said that it was Susie. I treasure that Minnie Mouse because it reminds me of her. She was the most remarkable person I have ever known.

Jobie Love,
Becky Herman
PHQ 54 SB Rep to MT

I have a wonderful story about Susie Q. I am a majority member of Susie's bethel. When I was HQ she was my Senior Princess. When it came time for Susie's Installation we knew that the HQ cape would be way to long, so Susie and her mom had a special one made just for her. Before the Installation started we folded up the cape and set it next to the alter. When I went down to give her the cape and the crown I had to take of my cape and fold it next to the alter and pick hers up, then I had to take off my crown and set it on the cape and pick up one that fit on her head. It was definitely a very different Installation.

I also remember one time when her mom had to go on a school field trip (Barbara was the dean at the school), and Susie had to go with her. She asked me to go with her, so we got in her mom's mini van and drove to ST. George, Utah. We got to our hotel room and it was small and nasty. We spent the weekend at a wrestling competition. Every chance we got we would go shopping (you know Susie). We had stopped at Claire's, Susie was in her wheel chair and we were looking around. She would just pick up something she wanted and put it in her basket. There was one bracelet she really wanted, so she was wearing it so it wouldn't fall out of the basket. When we were done and getting in the van, Susie says to her Mom, did the lady ring up the bracelet? Her Mom went back in to see and the lady behind the counter thought she had stolen it and was trying to put it back. We were all so embarrassed that we just left without the bracelet. For the longest time after we always had to laugh every time we past a Claire's store.

Susie was one of the greatest people I have ever met. I feel truley blessed to have not only known her but to have been really good friends with her.

- Alicia Calvert PHQ, MM Bethel # 5 Las Vegas, NV

Susie with the Daughters from Texas when she came to visit with us at the Third Annual Masonic Youth Weekend, April 28-30, which is sponsored by the Grand Lodge of Texas.
Sent by: Donna Warren, MM,RP Vice Jurisdictional Guardian of Texas
Center - SusanAnn Sky Holmes,
surrounded by her supporters (from left) Nicole Handley (Marshal #5 LV), Jessell Hoch (Honored Queen #2 Reno), Julia Gritton (Miss Nevada, Job's Daughters), Becky Evans (Senior Princess #2 Reno), Robyn Moore (Junior Princess #2 Reno)
 
from the Nevada Grand Lodge's website (www.nvmasons.org/special.html)
 

Here are a couple of pictures that are some of my daughter Nicole's favorites of last year's Supreme Session
Sent by: Roxie Handley,BG#5 LV,NV
Nicole Handley,JP#5 LV,NV
& Gerradean Handley,PHQ#5 LV,NV
Susie and Tracy Dahl, Miss IJD, while visiting Minnesota at their Fall-Inn weekend. (10/29/99 - 10/31/99)
Taken by: Tracy Apps PHQ & MM#6, PGBHQ wi, DoE #5
Wisconsin JD webmaster, Assistant Suprmeme IOJD webmaster
This is Susie and Tracy at the Supreme Visit in Delaware. It was also the Grand Guardian's Banquet.

It was a pleasure getting to know Susie when she stayed here. She was the most talkative, sweet person I think I will ever come in contact with. She didn't care who she talked to, whether she knew them or not. She was VERY friendly.

Sent by: Jennifer L. Pyne, PHQ
Miss Job's Daughter
Delaware, 2000- 2001
POOH PHQ@aol.com


Here is a photo of Suzie with Erica Ravenstine (left) California Grand Bethel Honored Queen and the Grand Bethel Honored Queen from Utah during Utah's Grand Bethel this year.

Sent by: Kim Schremp
Guardian Secretary #63 Lake Forest, CA
Majority Member #97 Burbank, CA



click for more MO pictures
Susie Holmes

Sent by: Barbara Holmes (Susie's mom)

Sent by: Mollie Petersen, HQ, PHQ #65, Missouri
This is a photo that was taken the day of the donkey incident at the Alma Park Zoo just north of Brisbane, in March 2000.

Pictured from left: Lesley Wilson GBG; Barbara Harris Grand Marshal; Carmen Wilson MQJD; Tracy Dahl; Alida Bican; Valerie Downes GG; and of course, Susie. Sent by: Carmen Wilson MQJD

Susie and Sarah Lear (PGBHQ) - taken at Mom Smiley's (PSG) Reception in Michigan

Sent by: Sarah Ruth Joseph-Lear, PGBHQ of MI

Dear Tracy Apps, Thanks so much for your kindness in developing a dedication page to Susie. She would be pleased by your tenderness and so are we. Susie loved Job's Daughters so deeply and believed in all the good things that are taught through our ritual. The compassion of you and all the folks in Job's Daughters has been felt in our lives even as our hearts feel like they have been broken into a million tiny pieces. We miss her with all our being.

In lieu of flowers, two memorial scholarships in Susie's name have been established:
- IOJD, mail to International Headquarters office, just reference scholarship and Susie's name
- UNLV Foundation, 4505 S. Maryland Pkwy., Las Vegas, NV 89154, just reference Susie's name

Again, thank you!
JD love and ours,
Barbara and David Holmes (Susie's parents)

 SusanAnn Sky Holmes 

Born Sunday, May 10, Mother’s Day 1981, Sunrise Hospital, Las Vegas, Nevada 
Church Family - University United Methodist Church, Las Vegas, Nevada 
  - Baptized at First United Methodist Church, San Francisco, CA, October 16, 1981 
  - Confirmation at University United Methodist Church 
Education  Hill and Dale Developmental Center, age 6 months through elementary years 
 Doris French Elementary School 
  - Dynamite Dolphin award (Outstanding Student-of-the-Month) 
  - President of USA Academic Fitness Award for Extraordinary Effort 
 Helen C. Cannon Middle School 
  - National Junior Honor Society 
  - Excellence in English Departmental Award 
  - Finalist Nominee for American Legion Award 
  - All “A” Recognition 
 Advanced Technologies Academy, magnet high school, graphic design major 
  - All “A” Recognition 
  - Scholarship award winner from Daylite Masonic Lodge, May 22, 2000 
  - Diploma awarded June 2, 2000, bedside ceremony, 3.4 cumulative GPA 
Masonic Affiliated Groups 
 International Order of Job’s Daughters 
  - Baby Dedication, Bethels 1 & 3, Supreme Official Visit, November  15, 1982 
  - Initiated into Bethel # 5, Las Vegas, September  17, 1994 
  - Offices held:  Librarian, 2nd-4th-5th Messengers, Recorder, Chaplain,  Guide, Junior Princess, Senior Princess, 
  - Honored Queen (April - November 1997) 
  - Supreme Bethel Representative to Missouri, 1996-1997 
  - Nevada Rally Honored Queen, May 1997 
  - Supreme Bethel Junior Princess, 1998-1999 
  - Supreme Sessions 1995-1999, over 20 awards for art-related competition entries 
  - Supreme Bethel Honored Queen, 1999-2000 
 Order of DeMolay 
  - Oasis Chapter Sweetheart, Oasis Chapter Princess, Vegas Chapter Princess 
 Order of Eastern Star, Sunrise Chapter # 28, Henderson, Nevada 
  - Initiated September 28, 1999  --   Susie was looking forward to being active and serving 
   as Queen Esther for the next term--the beautiful crown had a special appeal  :). 
Medical History  --  Susie adored her health-care givers!  Thank you for your compassion and care! 
 - Gaucher’s Disease (pronounced “go-shays”), diagnosed at age one 
 Storage disorder, missing an enzyme that allows old red bloods cells to be completely 
 metabolized out of the body, compromising body systems, 10 years of regular enzyme infusions. 
 - 23 trips to operating room, spine stabilized in two spots with fibia bone from mother’s leg 
  (With a sly smile, Susie noted that her mom was truly a “pain” in her back!) 
 - Femurs broken four times, rods in both femurs (long bone in thigh) 
 - By age 14, the length of all her incisions exceeded her height, which she found amusing 
 - On continuous oxygen since 2nd grade, first CCSD student on oxygen while at school 
 - Pulmonary rehab at Sunrise for last three years 

Risen  Wednesday, June 7, 2000, 12:10 PM 

  Sunrise Children’s Hospital, Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Las Vegas, Nevada 
  Susie was admitted to the hospital on May 25, 2000, for routine tests. 
 Parents  David Leo and BarbaraAnn Krajkoski Holmes, Henderson, Nevada 
Grandparents  Frank J. and Estella M. Krajkoski, Hannah M. Holmes, Henderson, Nevada 
Godparents   Ron and Vicki Martin, Indianapolis, Indiana 

Our Joyful “Susie” 
SusanAnn Sky Holmes 
May 10, 1981 - June 7, 2000 
Mom Coley and Susie
Mom Coley (SBG) and Susie Holmes (SBHQ)


(Click on pictures for a larger image)


 

 

This page developed and maintained by Tracy Apps, PHQ & MM #6, PGBHQ of WI, Director of Epochs #5, Wisconsin Job's Daughters webmaster, Assistant Supreme IOJD webmaster, and friend of Susie Holmes.
Questions/comments/concerns? Please email Tracy (Email: tray6@uwm.edu) with them. Thank you!

Tracy Apps
Tracy Apps