Barbara Jane Holden, 84, Washington, was received into heaven Friday, Dec. 30, 2011. She was a mother, sister, grandmother, aunt and friend.
She was born Aug. 23, 1927, in Cassville to John Allen Holden and wife Gladys Mae, nee Williams.
Mrs. Holden is survived by her older sister, Mary Francis Whorton, Carson City, Nev.; and two cherished sons, Gary L. Bracken and wife BethAnn, Robertsville, and Larry G. Bracken and wife Sheryl, Marthasville. She was a treasured "Mema" to Bryan Patrick Bracken and wife Amanda, Columbia, and Kathryn Mae Abreu and husband Fernando, Warrensburg; and a step-grandmother to Devon Martin and wife Amanda, Virginia Beach, Va., and Crystal Martin, Washington. She also is survived by her brother-in-law and dear friend, Marion "Merle" Bracken, Rector, Ark.; and many beloved nieces and nephews, especially Carol Jo Rohrbach and husband Don, Bolivar; other relatives and many friends.
She was an independent spirit, fiercely devoted to and protective of her family. In addition to love of family, she loved to travel and found enjoyment with a good book.
Mrs. Holden retired from Pepsi Cola Bottling, St. Louis, after 30 years' service. She resided in Sacramento, Calif., South Padre Island, Texas, Victoria, Texas, Farmington, Crestwood, Marthasville and Washington. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
Her family wishes to express their sincere appreciation to the nurses, aides and staff at Grandview Healthcare Center and Heartland Hospice for the dedicated and loving care they provided to Mrs. Holden to the very end. They were truly angels on earth for us.
Funeral services were held Wednesday, Jan. 4, at Fohn Funeral Home, Cassville, with Pastor Tony Ball conducting the services.
Burial was in Oak Hill Cemetery, Cassville.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Heartland Hospice by calling 636-390-4723 or to the Alzheimer's Association by visiting www.alz.org/stl/.
Visit www.fohnfuneralhome.com for online obituaries, guestbook and private condolences.
The family was served by Fohn Funeral Home, Cassville.
