Gladys Louisa (Bigelow) Holden

It is with humbled and saddened hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved matriarch, Gladys Louisa Bigelow Holden, who departed this life peacefully on May 3, 2026, surrounded by her family. Born on December 16, 1935, Gladys graced this world with her boundless love and unwavering faith for 90 beautiful years.

Gladys was the embodiment of grace and resilience, whose life was a testament to selfless service and unconditional love. She was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Preceded in death by her parents, four sisters, a brother, her husband Virgil "Dean" Holden, her grandson Beau Holden, great-grandson Grayson Michael Centers, and her daughter-in-law Beth Holden, Gladys is now reunited with them and many other family members who passed on.

Her enduring legacy lives on through her nine children: Lawrence Holden, Ruthie (Danny) Price, Billie Tapscott, Barbara (Brad) Devereaux, Karl (Alicia) Holden, Jim Holden, Robert (Susan) Holden, Mark (Janet) Holden, and Earl (Stephenie) Holden, along with her honorary son Derrik (Anna) Williams. She will also be fondly remembered by her 33 grandchildren (17 grandspouses), 50 great-grandchildren (4 great-grandspouses), two great-great-grandchildren, and two honorary grandchildren, in addition to numerous nieces and nephews. Each of these family members carries with them a part of her spirit, a spirit that always made you feel like the most important person in the world.

Gladys shared 38 years of marriage with her husband Dean before he passed in 1991.

Throughout her life, Gladys held various jobs in her community, but her most cherished role was that of a mother. Her greatest accomplishment was nurturing her children and grandchildren. Her home was a gathering place where stories were shared, games were played, and memories were made amidst the sounds of her children's and grandchildren's laughter.

A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Gladys served her congregation with humility and grace, including her role as a temple worker at the Snowflake Arizona Temple. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life, guiding her every action and decision.

In her leisure, Gladys found joy in reading, solving puzzles, and playing cards or board games. Her greatest delight, however, was listening to her children and grandchildren share stories, as she made each one feel like the center of her universe. Her acts of kindness were numerous, and her love was unconditional. She exemplified the pure love of Christ, offering a life of service, especially to her family.

As we say see ya later Gladys, we do so with the assurance that her spirit will continue to guide and inspire us all. She may be gone from this earthly existence, but her memory will remain in our hearts forever. Until we meet again, mom - mother dear - mama - grandma - grandma grape - Gladys, we love you always and forever.

Funeral services for Gladys's will be held on May 9, 2026, at 11:00 AM, with a viewing at 10 am, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints stake center located at 309 W Willow Lane Taylor, Taylor, AZ 85939. We invite all who knew and loved her to join us in honoring her life and legacy

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