Eliza Saburo Holmes

Eliza “Elise” Saburo Holmes, 64, passed away on April 4, 2023, in Bellevue, Washington. She was born on October 16, 1958, to parents of Palauan descent, Saburo and Sehedui Diaz. Her first cries were heard at Guam Memorial Hospital in Tamuning, Guam, born the fourth of nine children. Early on, she displayed a passion for learning and a natural gift of writing. She spent her free time immersed in books and comics of all genres, her favorites being science fiction and fantasy. Elise was also somewhat of a daredevil tomboy, zipping through the undeveloped island roads of Guam on her trusty dirt bike. She lived in Tamuning with her 8 siblings until the age of 14. In 1972, she moved to the “big city” of Honolulu to continue her studies.

Her curious nature escalated into her high school years. She attended Roosevelt High School and graduated in 1977. Though science was a subject she excelled at best, she’d agree that her attendance wasn’t exactly perfect. Her curiosities carried her beyond the confines of curriculum and lead her to a world of fun and adventure. Elise also had the gift of connections, attracting people from all backgrounds. She was down to earth and known for making fast friends. If you were the underdog, you bet she had your back. Her happiest moments during youthful years were spent in good company at the Ala Wai Harbor and nearby beaches.

It was at the harbor where two adventurous spirits collided, attracting attention from an ambitious and entrepreneurial young fellow, Steve Holmes. Together, they would build a scuba diving business in Waikiki. Shortly thereafter, they began a new journey together, one of marriage, on May 2, 1981. Out of this companionship, two daughters were born. Ursulla, in 1981, followed by Brandie, in 1983. Just recently, Elise was gifted with something every mother wants, to be a grandma, with the birth of Isla Mary Sophia Sehedui Kennedy in October of 2021.

The final years of her life she became a passionate and devoted member to her local church. It is this period of her life that opened doors to lessons of forgiveness, love, appreciation and gratitude. One final life lesson that ultimately brought her closer to her daughters and loved ones.

Later this year, she will go to her personal resting place. A place that is truly original for such a compassionate spirit. For her final adventure, she will be escorted by her lovely daughters to the island of Oahu, Hawaii.

She is preceded by her father, Saburo Diaz; and brothers, Nicholas Diaz and Joey Diaz...

She is survived by her mother, Sehedui Diaz; her siblings, Frank Diaz, Louise Cushing, Lillee Diaz, Mahea Diaz, Morris Diaz, and Ramona Diaz; the Father of her children, Steve Holmes; their daughters, Ursulla Elkins, and Brandie Holmes; her granddaughter, Isla Kennedy; and many nieces and nephews.

Please see below for donation information, in lieu of flowers, and service details.