Eileen C. Holman was born on March 16, 1954, in Barbados, West Indies, to the late Arnold Straker and Alberta Holder. She was one of fifteen siblings: Trevor Bascombe, Andy Straker, Colvin Straker, Purcey Straker, Adrian Straker, Steven Straker, Jerry Straker, Richard Straker, Marlene Straker, Sandra Straker, Roddy Straker, Beverley Straker, Gregory Straker, and Kim Straker.

Eileen attended secondary school in Barbados before continuing her education in Boston, Massachusetts, where she received additional college training at Harvard University during the 1980's. During her time there, she was recognized by the Harvard University Library for her published works, an accomplishment that reflected her dedication to learning and writing.

Eileen was united in Holy Matrimony with her beloved husband and lifelong companion, Victor Holman. She was also the proud and devoted mother of two children, Sharyn Bascombe-Darby and Furlance Bascombe (wife: Kennisha Beasley).

Eileen faithfully served as a Medical Secretary at Brigham and Women's Hospital, where she took great pride in her work and cared for patients and families with compassion, kindness, and professionalism. Throughout her career, she received numerous awards recognizing her excellence as a Medical Secretary and her unwavering commitment to service.

Known as a true social butterfly, Eileen had a gift for making everyone feel welcome. Her warm smile, generous spirit, and infectious love left a lasting impression on everyone she met.

Eileen found great joy in playing netball and preparing delicious meals, especially traditional Bajan cuisine. She was an exceptional cook and baker, celebrated for her homemade sweet bread and Bajan cakes. Through her cooking, she lovingly kept her Barbadian heritage alive and passed those treasured traditions on to her children.

Her greatest source of strength and inspiration was her relationship with God. Eileen faithfully attended church, joyfully lifted her voice in the choir, and sought to let her light shine through her faith, kindness, and service to others.

Singing and dancing were among Eileen's favorite expressions of life's joy. She treasured road trips with family and friends, creating memories that will be cherished for generations. Anyone who knew Eileen could count on hearing gospel music filling her home and car, with the occasional reggae or country song adding a smile to the moment.

Eileen also found deep fulfillment in serving her community. She lovingly prepared countless meals for the residents of Pine Street Inn Homeless Shelter, offering not only nourishment but also dignity, comfort, and compassion. She lived by the belief that "it is more blessed to give than to receive," and her generous heart touched countless lives.

A woman with a heart of gold, Eileen will forever be remembered for her unwavering faith, her unmistakable Bajan accent, her boundless generosity, and the genuine love she shared so freely with others. Her legacy of compassion, kindness, and service will continue to live on in all who were blessed to know her.

Eileen's greatest joy was her family. She was a loving grandmother to five cherished grandchildren - Rasheed, Taija, Elyjah, Makye, and Sophie - who were truly the apple of her eye. She delighted in watching them grow, celebrating their accomplishments, and surrounding them with unconditional love.