Rev. Clarence William Holmes was born August 11, 1952 to the late George Holmes and Robbie Merlyn McVea in San Antonio, Texas. He accepted Christ at an early age under the leadership of the late Rev. W.G. Gillespie Sr. Rev. Holmes united with the Greater Love Missionary Baptist Church September 22, 1986. His educational background began with his attendance to Saint Peter Claver in early childhood, Grant Elementary School and Cuney Elementary. Secondary education was received at Douglass Middle School. He was a proud graduate of Phyllis Wheatley High School the class of 1970. Immediately after high school, Rev. Holmes attended St. Phillips College and Texas Southern University. Rev. Holmes enlisted in the United States Air Force on February 9, 1972. During his military career he received honors and awards while playing football in Guam until he was injured. He was honorably discharged March 3, 1984.