Victoria J. “Vicky” (DiStasi) Holmes of Roslindale, formerly of Roxbury, passed away peacefully in her home on July 20, 2025. She was 97 years young. Beloved wife of the late Harold W. “Sonny” Holmes (proud World War II veteran). Devoted mother of Gail M. McGloin and her wife, Lauren DeVasto, of Norwood, Mark Holmes of Roslindale, and the late Robin A. Holmes. Cherished sister of Delores Kuhn of Dedham and of the late Mary Innello, Pasquale DiStasi, Anna Pepe, and Nunzio DiStasi. Loving grandmother of Steven McGloin and his wife, Kelsey, of Wrentham, Jeffrey McGloin of San Diego, California, Victoria “Vicki” McGloin and her partner, Ryan Ondrejko, of Foxborough, and Michael McGloin and his wife, Rebekah, of Norwood. Proud great-grandmother of Christian Carter and Lucas McGloin. Dear friend of Thelma Naymie and the late Lena and Frank Bianco. Vicky is also survived by many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will miss her dearly. Vicky’s happiest moments were spent with those she loved, gathered around the dinner table or sharing a conversation in the garden. Her cooking was renowned among family and friends, and her home-cooked meals were at the heart of many cherished get-togethers. Her kitchen was a place of warmth, comfort, laughter and delicious aromas. In addition to her love of cooking, Vicky enjoyed gardening and took pride in maintaining a beautiful yard. Her gardening talents revived plants that seemed beyond saving, breathing life into what others had already given up on. She took great care in making her garden look vibrant and well kept, a showcase for all to enjoy. Vicky traveled and explored many places with her beloved husband, Sonny. They created many memories together that she was always eager to share. Among all of their destinations, Italy held a special place in her heart and she visited there several times. In her later years, Vicky began her day with a quick workout at the West Roxbury/Roslindale YMCA, followed by morning mass at Holy Name Church. She was a devout parishioner and a well-loved member of the YMCA’s “A.M. Crew”, where she formed a second family. There, she became known as the beloved “Godmother.” Her “Godsons” happily vied for her attention and made sure she was looked after while she exercised and chatted with everyone. She made friends wherever she went, and those that knew her carried a special memory of their own. Her faith was strong and unwavering, but nothing surpassed her love of family.
Funeral from the William J. Gormley Funeral Home, 2055 Centre Street, West Roxbury, on Wednesday, July 30th, at 9:00a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass at Holy Name Church, 1689 Centre Street, West Roxbury, at 10:00a.m. Interment will follow at Knollwood Memorial Park, Canton. All are kindly invited to attend. Visiting hours for the wake will be held Tuesday, July 29th, from 4:00p.m. to 8:00p.m. in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations in Vicky’s memory may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675-8516, or online at www.woundedwarriorproject.org.