Patricia (Sweet) Holland

Patricia “Patsy” E. (Sweet) Holland, 83, of Worcester, formerly of Millbury, passed away Wednesday, September 19^th, 2018.  Patsy was predeceased by her husband, Frederick M. Holland, who died in 1972. She is survived by her children: Patricia Holland Caprera of Thompson CT, Deborah Baroni and her husband Stephen of Worcester, Catherine Holland-Smith and her husband Bill of Camano Island, Washington, Frederick M. Holland of Melrose, Mary Jane Holland and her husband Kevin Wier of Austin, Texas, Anne Holland-Amiot and her husband Joseph of Auburn, John Holland and his wife Lisa of Clermont, Florida; a brother Paul Sweet and his wife Joann of Millbury; several grandchildren, Stephen Jr., Jessica, Jillanne, Justin, Matthew, James and Nora Lee; four sisters-in-law, Mary Duquette, Frances Sweet, Doris Holland, and Luci Gilberg; many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. Her sister Mary “Mickey” Grenier and three brothers, Joseph, John and Robert Sweet as well as her son-in-law Joseph A. Caprera pre-deceased her.  

Patsy was born on November 27^th, 1934 to Joseph and Mary (Hamilton) Sweet.  She was raised in Millbury along with her five siblings. Patsy, a devoted mother, spent her time caring for her family and home. She later moved to Worcester in 2004. Patsy was a member of St Bridget’s church in Millbury and involved in the PTA at Our Lady of the Assumption for many years. She was involved in town and local politics and was an avid member of the Democratic Town Committee for most of her life. A stay at home mom, Patsy’s greatest joy was caring for her family, especially her grandchildren; she was wonderful with children and lovingly cared for others. Her wit and sense of humor made people feel comfortable and she was a source of encouragement and inspiration to many friends and family. Patsy was grateful to be a friend of Bill W. for 37 years. Later in life, Patsy discovered a talent for art and enjoyed painting and crafting. After moving to Notre Dame Long Term Care, she frequently offered companionship to other residents also making the transition. Additionally, while at NDLTCC, she was an enthusiastic member of the Bell Choir and Bible Adventure. The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Notre Dame Assisted Living and Long Term Care for their support and care throughout the years.

Calling hours will be held Monday, September 24^th from 8:30 am to 10:00 am in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. before proceeding in procession to Notre Dame Du Lac Chapel, 555 Plantation St, where her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 am. A private burial will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Cancer Fund of the University of Massachusetts Medical School, care of the UMass Memorial Foundation, 333 South Street, Shrewsbury, MA 01545, in appreciation for the treatment provided by the doctors and nursing staff at the UMass Memorial Cancer Center.