Barbara L. Holden

Barbara “Ma Holden” Lucillia (Sylvia) Holden, age 77, of New Bedford passed away Sunday, December 25, 2016 at St. Luke’s Hospital. She was the wife of George D. Holden with whom she shared 55 years of marriage.

Born in New Bedford, she was the daughter of the late Anthony P. Sylvia, Sr. and Lucillia (Brown) Sylvia. She was a graduate of New Bedford Vocational High School and St. Luke’s School of Nursing Class of 1960. She worked as a Registered Nurse at St. Luke’s Hospital and in a pediatrician’s office before staying home to be a homemaker for her loving family.

She was an animal advocate, sports mom for her son’s skating and volleyball teams, loved to camp and spend time with her family.

Survivors include her husband, one daughter: Sherrie L. Souza and her husband David of Swansea, one son: Michael D. Holden of Tiverton, one brother: Donald Sylvia and his wife Barbara of New Bedford, a grandson: Hector R. Grime, many nieces and nephews and her beloved dog: Quinn. She was the sister of the late Leoretta Silvia and Anthony P. Sylvia.

Her visitation will be held Thursday, December 29, 2016 from 5-8pm at the ROCK Funeral Home, 1285 Ashley Blvd., New Bedford. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers donations to the family would be appreciated. For tributes: www.rock-funeralhome.com.