William Edward Holden

William Edward Holden entered into rest on September 22, 2025, at the age of 89. He passed away peacefully at home in Harlingen, Texas, surrounded by the love and care of his devoted wife, Elizabeth Holden. Born in 1936 in Southbridge, Massachusetts, William was the son of Michael Joseph Holden and Antoinette Renaud. He was the beloved brother of Michael Francis Holden, who preceded him in death in 2014. William lived a life filled with curiosity, compassion, and quiet strength. He proudly served his country in Korea as a member of the 21st Infantry Regiment, earning the Good Conduct Medal. Though proud of his service, he chose not to dwell on the hardships of war, carrying those memories with humility and grace. Following his military service, William embarked on a long and rewarding career in aviation. He worked with Pan American World Airways (Pan Am) and later with American Airlines, where he remained until his retirement in 1998. His work allowed him to indulge his love of travel, taking him across the United States and around the globe. He visited many countries in Europe, Asia, and Central and South America. Among all these places, none held a more special place in his heart than Hawaii, where he spent several winters and found great joy and serenity. William had a deep love for animals, a fondness for country western music, and a gentle spirit that endeared him to all who knew him. In his later years, he built a quiet, fulfilling life in Harlingen, where he found true companionship and happiness with Elizabeth. Their nearly ten years of marriage were filled with devotion, laughter, and the simple pleasures of everyday life. William is survived by Elizabeth and by the many friends and loved ones whose lives he touched with his warmth and kindness. Visitation will be held on Monday, September 29, 2025, from 8:30 AM to 11:00 AM at the Rudy Garza Chapel of Peace in Harlingen, Texas. A graveside service will follow at 2:00 PM at the Rio Grande Valley Veterans Cemetery in Mission, Texas, under the auspices of the American Legion Post 205 of Harlingen. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Rudy Garza Funeral Home in Harlingen,