Galveston’s own classic: Hudson Holmes lives life for the fun of it

By Forest Riggs

Galveston has long been known for being home to some very interesting people. The dynamics of these individuals ranges from being well-known, high profiled and “center stage” types, to being quiet, “behind the scenes” influencers that contribute to the overall greatness of the island community. When it comes to making a difference and fully participating in promoting the island and its uniqueness, one cannot overlook Islander by Choice (IBC), Hudson Holmes.

The very name Hudson embodies intellect, intuition and a strong humanitarian calling. Rooted in Old German and Anglo-Saxon names Hugh and Hudd, it translates directly to “mind,” “spirit” or “heart.” What a great combination of qualities to embody in a new, male child destined to do great things.

Born and raised in Palestine, Texas to parents Charles and Birdie Holmes, the young Holmes grew up enjoying music, sports and anything involving nature and the great outdoors. He loved exploring the forests and rolling hills of East Texas.  A true classic, a 1963 model, he developed a special interest in drawing, skateboarding, sports and other creative endeavors such a writing and photography. 

“I have no idea why creativity crept into my life. It just did,” Holmes said.

His father, owner of two restaurants and later a successful garden nursery business, was a tremendous influence on his young son.

“My father was a good businessman and an excellent cook, who enjoyed sharing his creations with others, while my mother was the epitome of genteel, Southern hospitality,” Holmes jokes. “I inherited neither my father’s culinary skills nor my mother’s gracious charm. What I did inherit, was curiosity.”

It was this curiosity and a desire for knowledge, that led Holmes to Stephen F. Austin University, where he double majored in finance and accounting. After graduating in 1985, Holmes launched a successful CPA career that took him to Houston, Albuquerque and Phoenix. Along the way, he became a CFO, owned a national franchise, operated a marketing agency, produced television commercials and built multiple businesses. With his creative ability, the sky was the limit.

The road to Galveston began with a loss. Living in Phoenix at the time, the death of his best friend caused Holmes to evaluate what was really important. His mother was still living in Texas, and he wanted to be closer to her.

In 2009, he and his partner, Paul Minafri, moved to Fort Worth, believing it would be the right fit. Upon a visit to Galveston for Mardi Gras, everything changed. The couple found themselves returning to Galveston weekend after weekend. It was not the beach that drew them, but the people. Friendships were born and there was a tremendous sense of belonging; both men felt it. After much discussion and visiting, the couple moved to the island in the summer of 2012.

Hudson (left) and partner Paul Minafri

While most visitors are drawn to the beach, the historic architecture and the history, or even the laid-back atmosphere, Holmes found something else.

“The island’s true magic lies in its community,” he said. “Friendships feel deeper than coincidence and connections seem almost impossible to explain.”

Because of the strong bonds and ease with which friendships are made, and the strength of the bond, Holmes theorizes that many residents had a past life on the island and perhaps perished during the Great Storm of 1900. In essence, they have returned or come home, finding each other again.

“Can I prove it?” he asks. “Of course not, but it sure makes sense to me.”

After decades in accounting and wanting to try something new, Minafri encouraged Holmes to venture into real estate. He had the warm personality and a sincere desire to assist others in their search for a new home on Galveston Island, so it was a natural fit. Having visited the island so often and becoming friends with many locals, Holmes was aware of the real estate market on the island and the wonderful opportunities with all the different brokers and agencies in Galveston. Soon he went to work for Joe Tramonte Realty and never looked back. Fourteen years later, Holmes is one of the island’s best-known realtors and is an associate broker at the successful Tramonte agency.

Hudson Holmes (right) and V.J. Tramonte watching US vs. Australia game

Holmes credits much of his success to mentor and friend, V.J. Tramonte, son of founder Joe Tramonte, who gave him something every creative person craves: freedom.

“Every day I have a new blank canvas to work with, and V.J. makes this possible,” Holmes said. “There are vast opportunities on the island, and working with V.J. enables me to take advantage of these opportunities.”

Sadly, during the onslaught of the Covid epidemic, Hudson’s partner of 18 years succumbed to the virus. Minafri died on December 9, 2020. His passing dealt a devastating blow to Holmes and the huge circle of friends the couple had accumulated.

It was a very dark period, which is to be expected for anyone facing such a loss. Holmes credits his strong Galveston friendships for being there and getting him through the horrible time.

“I have the best friends in the world here in Galveston,” he said. “They were there for me after Paul’s death, and they remain here for me now. It was, and is, a tremendous support system and I am grateful.”

Utilizing his creative talents, Holmes has been instrumental in developing projects and events that raise money for charities such as ACCT, the Island Humane Society, and promote island life.

Seven years ago, on a whim, he held the first Annual Barry White Birthday Party, honoring the entertainer who was born on the island. The event has grown each year and has raised thousands for charities. Working with Todd and Tommy, owners of Lucky Lounge, has made the party a very anticipated event.

For this party and other events, Holmes is known for creating fantastic T-shirts, banners, caps, and even beverage koozies reflecting the event themes. With an eye for design and a strong desire to see things through, the sky seems limitless for Holmes and his creations.

Logo design by Hudson Holmes used in promoting Galveston

In his spare time, Hudson enjoys traveling and particularly New Zealand, which he has visited four times. He is an avid sports fan and frequently attends professional games and matchups. Growing up, he loved music concerts and seeing some of his favorite performers. He attended opening night at the Las Vegas Sphere for U2, watched the final-ever concert by KISS in New York, and remembers seeing boxing legends like Mike Tyson and George Foreman with his father in Las Vegas.

“It was not so much the celebrities as it was watching my father’s excitement,” Holmes said.

For someone with such a varied resume, Holmes’ philosophy is surprisingly simple.

“Travel when you can, create whenever inspiration strikes, surround yourself with people you love and, above all else, have fun,” he said. “I’m convinced the main reason I exist is to have a great time every day.”

For anyone who knows Hudson Holmes, that does not sound like a joke. It sounds exactly right!

Holmes can be reached at Hudsonsellsholmes.com.

Forest Riggs lives in Galveston. His book, ‘Galveston Memories and Related Stories’ is available at Amazon.com, OutSkirtsPress.com and ForestRiggs.com.

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