WESTFIELD – (formerly of Southwick, MA) – Joan R. Holmes, 92, of Westfield, MA, and formerly of Southwick, passed away peacefully on September 20th, 2024, at Noble 
Hospital, surrounded by her loving family and supported by the compassionate staff at Noble Hospital.
Born in Cambridge, NY, on August 31st, 1932, Joan was the daughter of the late Robert and Doris (Piser) Hanson. Her family moved to Westfield, MA, when she was young, where she graduated as Salutatorian from Westfield High School in 1950. It was during high school that she met her lifelong love, Donald “Red” Holmes. After his service in the Navy, the couple married on January 28th, 1951. In 1955, they settled into the home they built on Ham Hill Road in Southwick, where Joan resided until 2020 before moving into her daughter Cathy’s home.
Joan’s dedication to her family was immeasurable. Her husband fondly called her the family’s “domestic engineer,” reflecting her unwavering devotion to their home and loved ones. Once their children were in school, Joan enjoyed working part-time as a sales associate at Steiger’s Department Store in Westfield until its closing. Her commitment to helping others extended into the donation of her time at Noble Hospital, where she was recognized for her 4,000 hours of volunteerism and dedication.
A lifelong member of the Southwick Congregational Church, Joan taught Sunday School and assisted with the church’s summer youth camp. She and Red were deeply involved in the Southwick community, attending numerous functions and always showing up to cheer on their children and grandchildren at various sporting events.
In their retirement, Joan and Red embraced a love of travel, visiting all 50 states and one overseas adventure to England. They were devoted UConn Women’s Basketball fans and attended many games, including the 1995 NCAA National Championship in Minnesota, where Rebecca Lobo led the team to victory. Joan also cherished her time with friends at YMCA swimming classes and luncheons with her high school classmates.
Joan was predeceased by her beloved husband, Donald “Red” Holmes, who passed away in 2014. She was his devoted caregiver throughout his battle with Alzheimer’s disease.
She is survived by her brother, John Hanson of Southwick, and niece, Taryn Hanson (Jesse Varner), as well as her four children: John (Lynn) and their children Derek (Tiffany), Daniel (Krystal), and Donna Richards (Tyler); Cathy Bruce (Andy) and their children Kelly Armstrong (William), Kim Bruce, and Karly Doyle (Morgan); Paul Holmes (Dorrie) and their children Ben, Rebekah, Nate (Cristina), and Jonathan (Stephanie); and Joanne “Dodie” Stafford (John) and their son Matthew. Joan was incredibly proud of her 11 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.
Joan will be remembered for her kindness, strength, and unwavering love for her family and community. She touched many lives and will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
A gathering of family and friends will be held Thursday, September 26th, 2024 from 3-5 p.m. at Southwick Forastiere Funeral & Cremation, 624 College Highway, Southwick, MA with a memorial service to honor Joan’s life beginning at 5 p.m. A private burial in New Cemetery, Southwick will be held at the convenience of Joan’s family. Memorial contributions may be made to Shriners Hospital for Children, 516 Carew Street, Springfield, MA 01104 or Southwick Recreation Center, 64 Powder Mill Road, Southwick, MA 01077. For online condolences please visit www.forastiere.com.
