Paul P. Holden Sr.

Paul P. “Pa” Holden, Sr., age 97, of Fall River, passed away Sunday, March 8, 2026, at Clifton Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Somerset. He was married for 54 years to the late Jean M. (Watkinson) Holden.

Born in Fall River, a son of the late Richard M. Holden and Agnes C. (Fallon) Holden, he was a lifelong resident of the city. A veteran of the United States Coast Guard, he served his country during the Korean War and was a lifetime member of AMVETS Post 60 in Fall River.

Paul worked for many years as a machinist at Electric Boat, building nuclear submarines for the U.S. Navy, before retiring from that position in the 1990s. Prior to that service, he was the proud owner and operator of the Cottage Milk Bar, a Fall River variety store that was a fixture in the community and very popular meeting place for local residents.

An avid golfer, Paul loved spending time on the course and always enjoyed a spirited card or board game with friends and loved ones. Known for his quick wit and great sense of humor, he brought great happiness to everyone who knew him.

Above all, Paul cherished the time he spent with his family. His greatest joy was being with his loved ones, especially his grandchildren, whom he adored and who brought him immense pride and joy.

He is survived by five sons, Paul P. Holden, Jr. and his wife Amy of Clifton, VA; Richard J. Holden and his wife, Kim of Plymouth; Joseph C. Holden and wife Cheryl of Fall River; Kevin J. Holden of Fall River; Michael P. Holden and wife Kristi of Hingham, along with 21 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren (two more on the way) and many nieces and nephews. He was the father of the late Shawn M. Holden and brother of the late Richard, William, John, David, Joseph, and James Holden, Anne Marie (Holden) Sullivan, and Claire (Holden) Domansky.

His Funeral will be held on Monday, March 16, 2026 at 9:00 AM from the Waring-Sullivan Home at Cherry Place, 178 Winter St., Fall River, followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:00 AM in Holy Name Church, 709 Hanover St., Fall River. Relatives and friends invited. Visiting hours Sunday from 3:00 to 6:00 PM. Burial in St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Fall River.