Stanley R. Holden

Stanley R. Holden, 89, of Shrewsbury, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 1, 2026, after a period of declining health.

Born on New Year’s Day, January 1, 1937, in Worcester, Stan was the only child of Albert C. and Nettie A. (Wells) Holden. He was raised in Worcester and graduated from Commerce High School Class of 1955. He attended the former New England School of Accounting and proudly served in the National Guard.

On February 12, 1966, Stan married Linda E. Estabrook of Shrewsbury at the First Congregational Church. Together they made Shrewsbury their home for more than 60 years, building a life grounded in family, loyalty, and shared traditions.

Instilled with a strong work ethic from an early age, Stan spent more than 50 years in sales, beginning with H.R. Prescott and Sons and later with Water Works Supply Co. His natural ability to connect with people made him a gifted salesman. He could strike up a conversation anywhere, with anyone. He will be remembered for his humor, devotion to family, his frugality, and for giving unsolicited advice.

Stan found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved to travel and enjoyed taking over 100 trips in his lifetime. He was an avid gardener whose favorite plant was always the tomato. Cape Cod, especially his cottage on Nauset Heights, was his heaven on earth. He loved clamming and quahogging, boating, fishing, and soaking up the salt air with family, friends, and any dog that walked by. At home, he enjoyed tinkering and puttering - never one to throw anything away because he could fix it! He also enjoyed friendships and memberships in the local Masonic lodges as well as being a proud Shriner. 

In addition to his wife of 60 years, Linda, he leaves his children, Bonnie L. Gibb (David) of Chelmsford, Betsey E. Desfosse (Don) of Andover and David C. Holden (Jackie) of Holden; his adoring grandchildren whom he was devoted to, Rebekah Gibb, Alyssa Desfosse, Lindsey Desfosse and John Holden; in-laws Alan Estabrook (Patricia) of Yarmouthport; nieces & nephews.

His family is grateful to his ‘fishing trip crew’ for their steadfast and loyal friendship for over 70 years. And also for his niece, Jennifer Mowbray, who held a special place in his heart, always making time for “Unc” and making him feel special.

Family and friends will honor and remember Stan’s life by gathering for calling hours in The Parlor of First Congregational Church, 19 Church Road, SHREWSBURY, on Friday, June 5th from 4 to 7 p.m. His funeral service will be celebrated on Saturday, June 6th at 1 p.m. in the church. The Rev. Holly MillerShank will officiate. A collation will be held in Gifford Hall at the church after the funeral. All are welcome.

Those wishing to view the livestream of Stan's service please use this link: https://www.fccsm.org/livestream

Memorial donations in Stanley’s name can be made to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02115 or https://www.dana-farber.org/ or Shriners’s Children’s Hospital, 2900 Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL 33607 https://www.shrinerschildrens.org/en

Arrangements by James + John Heald of The Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street, Waltham.