Kerry (Holmes) Cortez
July 24, 1950 - April 2, 2025
Published on website for Brown Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Niles, MI
Kerry (Holmes) Cortez, a beacon of compassion and dedication, passed away peacefully at her home in Niles, Michigan on April 2, 2025. Born on July 24, 1950, to the late George and Eileen (Knoll) Holmes, Kerry's life was a testament to the impact one person can have on the lives of many.
Kerry's lifelong career in nursing began as a Nurse’s Aide at Pawating Hospital in Niles, Michigan. From there, she went on to attend nursing school at Michael Reese Hospital in Chicago, Illinois where she earned a degree as a Registered Nurse and began her nursing career. Among Kerry’s specialties, she worked as an intensive care, trauma, surgical and emergency room nurse as well as supervisor and managerial positions in the health field. Along the way, she earned numerous certifications and degrees including a Master’s Degree. Over more than four decades she left a lasting legacy of service and care in the Chicagoland community. Relocating back to Niles after retirement, she ended up back at Lakeland Hospital (formerly) Pawating as a volunteer.
On August 13, 1977, Kerry married the love of her life, John Cortez, in a beautiful ceremony in Chicago. Their partnership was one of mutual respect, support, and shared values. Together they navigated the journey of life with grace and love.
Outside of her professional life, Kerry was a woman of diverse interests and talents. Beginning with ballet and piano lessons in her youth, she went on to enjoy gardening, cooking, Zumba classes, music, and theater. Oh, she also earned a Brown Belt in the Art of Karate. Kerry never stopped learning and growing, always seeking new ways to express her creativity and zest for life. Her beloved husband, John Cortez, and the multitude of friends, colleagues, and patients whose lives she touched celebrate Kerry’s enduring spirit.
She will be remembered as a loving and kind soul, whose passion for life and the wellbeing of others knew no bounds. Kerry’s legacy of love, kindness, and passionate care will remain a part of those who were fortunate enough to know here.
Those wishing to make a memorial donation in honor of Kerry have been asked to consider St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, Stjude.org/donatetoday.
A time of gathering, reflection and celebrating of Kerry and the impactful life she led will take place on April 26, 2025 at Brown Funeral Home from 1p.m -3 p.m. An additional gathering and luncheon will take place in the Chicagoland area May 3, 2025 from 12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. at the White Eagle Event Center. 6839 N. Milwaukee Ave, Niles, Illinois.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services.