Pauline Holmes

It is with sadness and thankful hearts that we announce the passing of Pauline Holmes, who entered her heavenly home on February 18, 2026 — just hours before she would have celebrated her 99th birthday. We find comfort in imagining her celebrating that birthday in heaven reunited with her beloved husband, Richard.

Pauline, was born on February 19, 1927, in Montgomery Township, Ashland County, Ohio, to Warren and Villa (Scott) Eichelberger. She graduated from Savannah High School in 1945 and later from Wooster Business College.

On August 27, 1949, she married the love of her life, Richard D. Holmes. They shared 55 wonderful years of marriage before his passing on November 21, 2004.

Pauline worked for Hess & Clark in Ashland, Women’s Division of Manpower in Cincinnati, Babcock & Wilcox in Barberton, and First National Bank in Smithville. She brought diligence, kindness, and grace to each role she held.

A devoted woman of faith, Pauline was a charter member of Grace Church in Wooster. She faithfully served as Recording Secretary for seven years and as Organizational Treasurer. She was deeply involved in church Bible study groups and served as a discussion leader in Bible Study Fellowship. Her commitment to serving others extended into the community as a co-founder of the Pregnancy Care Center of Wayne County, a Meals on Wheels volunteer for 17 years, and a LifeCare Hospice volunteer for five years.

Pauline will be deeply missed by her daughter, Beth (Daniel) Bowman of Wadsworth; her son, Keith (Elisa) Holmes of Little Rock, Arkansas; her grandchildren, Sarah (Dan) Gaugler, Stephanie (Matt) Smith, and Morgan (Ryan) Sheppard; and her great-grandchildren, Ethan, Clarie and Ben Gaugler.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Richard; her parents; her brothers, Merle and Robert Eichelberger; her sister, Vera Kestner; and her infant sister, Esther.

Pauline’s life was marked by steadfast faith, quiet strength, generous service, a deep love for her family and a deep love for the unborn. Her legacy of faith and service will continue in the lives of all who were blessed to know her.

A Celebration of Pauline’s life will be held on Monday, February 23, at 2 p.m. at Roberts Funeral Home – Sherwood Chapel, Wooster (and livestreamed at www.robertsfuneralhome.com/obituaries/pauline-holmes) with Pastor Bud Olszewki officiating. Friends may call from 1 p.m. until the time of the service. Burial will be at Sherwood Memorial Gardens, Wooster. Online tributes may be made at www.robertsfuneralhome.com.