Search by Name

Search by Name

Gary Holmes Obituary

Waterford - Beloved friend and husband, Gary J. Holmes entered eternal life on Sunday, May 2, 2010. He is survived by his wife Debra of 25 years.

He was the son of Magda Holmes of Waterford and the late Robert Holmes.

One of the highlights of his morning was always enjoyed in the company of his friends at The Shack Jr. in Waterford.

Thanks to all of the many wonderful people at Devita and Lawrence & Memorial Hospital for their understanding, support and kindness along the way.

A celebration of his life will be planned at a later time. According to his wishes, there will be no funeral or church services.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Day on May 5, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Gary Holmes

Not sure what to say?





June 4, 2010

My Precious Child-It is so sad to have your dear husband of 25 years leave you. I'm grateful that he is with His Lord, and that his joy is complete. He lived his life of illness without complaint. Debbie--you willingly drove him to his doctors and the hospital, and became quite informed about is health. God will give you the strength to carry on. I wish we could be of help to you. Barbara and Larry

Mitchell Hammer

May 11, 2010

Debra
Life can send you in many different directions. It's the memories that bring you back together. I can only think back at all the good times you and Gary had together. My thoughts are with you and I’m so very sorry for your loss.

Scott ("Tex") & Naoko Brittin

May 10, 2010

Debra – Very sorry to learn of Gary’s passing – our sincere condolences to you and your family. Naoko and I heard this sad news from my mom – she and Gary’s mom have remained good long-distance friends all these years ever since Gary and I were in Cub Scouts together and attending Cohanzie Elementary School. Gary and I were best buddies from 1st grade thru Junior High School after which my family moved out of state and we gradually lost track of each other over the years. We had so many great childhood adventures together, riding our bikes everywhere and hiking/exploring/ camping/fishing at the abandoned quarry and “wilderness” out behind Gary’s neighborhood, and playing baseball and football in his backyard (and pinball in his basement).

Looking back on those years so long ago, it seems now like we were living out the stories from the Little Rascals and Leave it to Beaver rolled into one – what great times we had and great memories I have of our childhood friendship. Debbie, I’m so glad that Gary had you as a “soul mate” to share his life with and am sure that your memories from your life together will be of some comfort to you in the difficult days ahead. You and Mrs. Holmes (my “auxiliary Mom”), Steven and Diane are in our thoughts and prayers.

jacqueline tyler

May 9, 2010

This world will not be the same without Gary's sense of humor and giant kind heart. He was so unbelievably kind. And so very, very sweet. I am so happy to say that I was included in just a small part of your life. Thanks for letting me into your adorable, loving and hysterically funny world! Deb, you always made him (and me) laugh--even when he was getting a shot! You are one of the most amazing women I have ever met--so strong--no matter what, you got him to show that gorgeous smile! I have never met a couple that was so in-sync but in an opposites attract sort of way...Topsy and turvy, Ying and yang, lol that's what made you guys so fun to be around! I know he is watching over you, protecting you... But your sister Cindy says it all-I could not have said it better-and I only see you guys a couple times/year! You both are forever stamped on my heart. Love, your Dental Hygienist but most of all friend.... Please accept my condolences: ALL that were privileged to know him but especially those that were loved by this very good man. I am so sorry for your loss. xoxojack

Steve Magyorsi

May 7, 2010

Gary,I've been living in Maine for almost 6 years and so it has been seven or more since I last saw you. I close my eyes and we're at Waterford High-Mabry's-The Shaboo Inn-racing our "hunks of junks" at the speedbowl- or you lending me your triumph sports car a hundred times or more. I close my eyes again and see a friend who was there for me many many times. Condolences to all
Cares and Prayers.
Steve Mag

Robin ORourke

May 7, 2010

Deb,

Gary fought the battle bravely and with dignity and now he is at peace and pain free.It was my pleasure to have met you both and I admired your and Gary's sense of humor through it all.
It is always difficult for those left behind. May you find comfort in the happy memories of the past 25 + years.
May God Bless and keep you both in the cradle of his arms.

Bob Smith

May 7, 2010

Deb, I'm sorry to hear of Gary's passing,Gary was and always will be a great friend to me. I worked with Gary at E.B in Groton. Gary will surely be missed. I miss the early 5:00a.m breakfasts that Bob Vanbibber and I used to go to with Gary before work on the weekends and the dinners at the the Steakloft after work. Take care of yourself Deb may God be with you and watch over Gary.

Cindy Ciavaglia

May 6, 2010

Deb,
It takes a special person to set aside one's own needs for another, and that you did flawlessly. Through the ups and downs, that life can bring, you stood strong by his side through 25 years of a joyful marriage. You both had the ability to balance each other, when he was weak you were strong and when you were down he was there to lift you up. It's the kind of relationship that people admire, unconditional love. You will always be his loving wife and he will always be your loving husband. I couldn't of asked for a better bother-in-law and sister. You are that special person.

I love you
your sister
Cindy

Catherine Hall

May 6, 2010

So sorry to hear of Garys passing. He was my boss at EB/ Shaws Cove. Good memories of working with him... My prayers are with you.

Valerie Ciavaglia

May 6, 2010

Hi Aunt Deb, I know that I have talked with you almost everyday since Uncle Gary passed however, I would like you to know what a strong woman you are; with me and most importanly while taking care and loving uncle Gary for all those years. You kept him going every day whether it was with jokes and laughing or doctors appointments and late nights. The last memory that I will carry with me of uncle gary was about two months ago in the kitchen when the boys were making tons of noise and uncle gary was huffing and puffing waiting for them to stop... lol! We were laughing so hard. Im glad he got to see the boys and I am lucky to have had such a great uncle. I love you and respect you for all you have done and will continue doing. Love, Valerie

The Staff at DaVita

May 6, 2010

Dear Debbie,

The thoughts and prayers of many are with you at this sad and difficult time. Gary will be missed by all.

May 6, 2010

Sincere sympathy and prayers are extended to you and all friends and family. Gary was a co-worker at EB with me, and we will all miss him. He was a great guy to know. Glad he was able to enjoy many years of retirement. He is in God's care now.
Tom and Mary Ann Tangari (Pawcatuck, CT)

Vivian,Tony,Brian,Kevin & Brittney

May 6, 2010

Deb even though I don't know you I am sorry for your loss. My brother rented from Gary years ago. Diane, Marie, Mason & Magda my thoughts and prayers are with you. If there is anything you or your family needs, please call.

I Smith

May 6, 2010

Gary would be so proud of the respectful way you have treated his mother Magda in her time of grief.

May 5, 2010

Dear Deb,
So many good memories, especially here
in Virginia with the two of you. Gary
was such a genuine and nice person with
a grand, dry sense of humor. Jack has
an advantage with the memories as he
and Gary spent a lot of time at General
Dynamics.
We are so blessed to know both of
you and admire your strength, dedication and love for Gary during his
long illness.

Our sympathy and our love.
Jack and Lynda
Martinsville, Virginia

Becky Fraser

May 5, 2010

Debbie, Our thoughts and prayers are with you! We are sorry for your loss. Matt and Becky Fraser (Fraser's Lawncare)

Jim Denning

May 5, 2010

Dear Deb,

Words can not express what you and Gary have experienced in your time together. Only the people that have seen you together, or have been a part of your lives, can understand the love you have both shared. I truly was blessed to share a brief part of your life together; and, I know that you will always carry all that you experienced with Gary with you. I look forward to celebrating Gary's life each, and every time I'm with you. If you need anything, you know how to contact me.

Take care my friend,
Love ya,
Jim Denning

phil yering

May 5, 2010

gary was a great freind we had great time in high school and after my prayors go out to the holmes family gary great smile will be missed

Harriette Clark

May 5, 2010

Debbie,
The person who described you and Gary as two peas in a pod was right. There is no other way to describe the two of you. Be grateful for what you had.

Don & Marlene Sloan

May 5, 2010

To Debbie....Your stepfather and I would like to extend our condolences to you.....Gary praised you so much to Don .....and just last week he told Don how lucky he was to have you beside him....Gary would have been so proud to know you are still thinking of him in death by respecting his last wishes ....no funeral or services....our thought and prayers are with you in this time of your loss..Gary will forever have his special place in our hearts....Love You ...Mom and Stepfather

Marian Simpson

May 5, 2010

Dear Deb: I met Gary and Deb 25 years ago, and k now first hand of the years of illness he has endured and also the years of dedicated devotion given by Debra, lots of times alone. I feel your pain in my heart. We have some wonderful memories to enjoy.
Marian Simpson

Tom Heatley

May 5, 2010

Gary and I were childhood friends when we went to Cohanzie Elementary School. Spent many an hour in Gary's backyard and neighborhood playing football and having fun. Great memories. Gary was a good person with a great sense of humor. My sympathy to everyone in the Holmes Family. God Bless. Tom Heatley.

May 5, 2010

Dear Deb, we are so sorry for your loss, Gary was a great person and we will miss him very much. Stay strong and we're here if you need us. Love Alicia, Dennis and Emily.

Cheryl Terranova

May 5, 2010

Debra~Our Thoughts Are with you.Hold on to youre Memories as they bring you joy.You & Gary were soul mates.He has begun his journey.He will wait for you ,watch over you,& when you take your journey,however long that takes..He will be there waitting.So you ,his soulmate,along w/sammy/missy,and the chow,..To all his Family his MOM,I am so sorry for You"re Loss
Peace
Cheryl Terranova ,Jimmy Sousa & JImbo

Krista (mcgrath) Desjardins

May 5, 2010

Dear Debbie, i'm so sorry for your tremendous loss. what a good sense of humor he had. i've many good memories of you and him..my good friends and neighbors. my thoughts and prayers are with you

Marlene Sloan

May 5, 2010

To my daughter Debbie, Gary"s friend and wife...As Gary"s caregiver....words cannot express my feelings of admiration and respect for you.....in taking care of my favorite "Son-In-Law." ...You far exceeded his expectations and others of showing your everlasting love and devotion to him....I am so saddened for your lost...Love Mom

Eleanor Bruce

May 5, 2010

From Elementry to Jr. High to High School! Another class of 66 member has gone on! Rest in peace old classmate! My condolances to his family1 I am so sorry for your loss!

Larry/ Linda Elliott

May 5, 2010

Deb, we've known Gary most of our lives. He was a funny guy and fun to be near . Even tho' we aren't with him now , he'll always be remembered .

May 5, 2010

Deb, I am so sorry...he was such a wonderful man. You guys are the epiitome of 2peas in a pod. I hope that kevin and I are as happy as you two after 25 years. Love, jackie

mark higham

May 5, 2010

Please accept my deepest sympathies.

May 5, 2010

My thoughts our with you and your family, He was a great person and will be missed very much.I'am so sorry for your loss. Linda Elliott

Debra Holmes

May 5, 2010

we will see you again, till then my love. the pups & Deb

Kat Startz

May 5, 2010

Deb,
I am so proud of you for following in Gary's wishes not to have a funeral or church service. I know it is difficult, but he made it very clear that is how he wanted it. Thank you for following through with his wishes. I tuck in a prayer for you both each morning. If you need anything, please call.

Showing 1 - 34 of 34 results

Make a Donation
in Gary Holmes's name

Memorial Events
for Gary Holmes

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Gary's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Gary Holmes's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more