William Holmes

Holden - William George Holmes, II - age 97 died on August 17, 2025 resting comfortably at his home in Holden, Massachusetts.

William was married for 61 years to Grace Stansbury (deceased, 2013) and had four sons - William of Sante Fe, NM, Stephen and Patricia Creen of Auburn, David and Nan (deceased, 2020), David's fiancé - Judy Briggs of Sutton, and Robert and Diane of Charlton; five grandchildren - Ryan, Alexander, Eric, Mark, and Nicolas; two great grandchildren, Trent and Kinsley Grace. He was predeceased by his sister Helen and brother Donald.

Born in Chelsea, Massachusetts, on June 22, 1928, he was the son of the late William Holmes and Jennie Watts and has lived in Holden since 1972, previously living in Millbury, and the metro Boston area. He graduated from Boston University with a B. S. in Accounting in 1950 and married the love of his life Grace Stansbury on September 15, 1951. He worked tirelessly as a Certified public Accountant at the Paul Revere Life Insurance Company for 35 years, and rose to the level of Senior Vice President and Treasurer. After retirement from Paul Revere Life Insurance, he maintained a CPA practice specializing in Tax Consulting.

William was dedicated family man who played tennis his entire life and followed the Boston Red Sox and the New England Patriots. William also enjoyed classical music and boating on Narragansett Bay and Lake Winnipesaukee. William was known as "Papa Bill" and was adored by his five grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

A private service will be held for immediate family. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Project New Hope, Inc. 70 James Street, Suite 129A , Worcester, Mass 01603.

Arrangements under the care of Miles Funeral Home in Holden.