Matthew L Holmes

Matthew L. Holmes, 85 of Rochdale, passed away home to the Lord, Thursday September 3rd 2009 in the St. Vincent Hospital surrounded by family. Matthew was born March 30, 1924, in Philadelphia, PA a son of John M. and Beatrice (Acree) Holmes. He joined the U.S. Navy during World War II, serving aboard more than five Navy ships in battle during the next eight years of service. Shortly after his Navy discharge he met and married his wife Jean M. (English) Holmes and they celebrated 56 more years of marriage raising their children and watching their grandchildren grow. They have lived in Rochdale over 49 years. Besides his wife, Matthew leaves to mourn his passing, his three children, Matthew Holmes, Jr. in Philadelphia, Michelle Reedy and her husband Ronald in Houston, Texas, Worcester Police Officer Mark Holmes and his wife Nayla of Rochdale; four cherished grandchildren, Angela and Mark Reedy, Ericka and Mark J. Holmes; two great grandsons, Trey and Daylon; many nieces, nephews, and friends. Two brothers, Matthew's identical twin Paul and his brother John Holmes and a sister, Beatrice Johnson all pre deceased him. Matthew worked to support his family more than 35 years for the Wyman-Gordon Company, Worcester Plant before retiring in 1989. Matthew was a member of Belmont A.M.E. Zion church, The J.Edmonds, J.Haynes V.F.W. Post 312. The King David Lodge of Masons and the AFL-CIO Steelworkers Union. Matthew enjoyed reading, travel and sports. His inspiration in life was his family; he cherished them and their company. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, September 8th 2009 at 12 noon in the Belmont A.M.E. Zion Church, 55 Illinois Street Worcester, Burial will be in Hope Cemetery. A period of visitation will be held Monday, September 8th from 11 a.m. to 12 noon at the church prior to the funeral. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Belmont A.M.E. Zion Church, P.O.Box, 20220, Worcester Ma 01602. The MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. is honored to assist the family with arrangements.