Sue Ellen Holmes

Sue Ellen Holmes, 73, passed away September 18th at High Pointe hospice, Haverhill surrounded by family and friends. Born in North Andover October 4, 1950 to the late Francis (Franny) A. Holmes and Katherine Gallagher Holmes, she was educated at St Michael's school North Andover and St Mary's High School, Lawrence, Ma. An honors graduate of Merrimack College she received her Masters in Library Science from the University of R.I. Sue Ellen is survived by brother Richard Holmes of Salem N.H. and Andover Ma, sisters Betsy Meunier (Pete) Hinsdale, Ma, Rosemary Draper (John) Owls Head, Me, sister of the late Carey Holmes. She leaves longtime family friend Diane Houde and many nieces, nephews and great nephews. Raised in North Andover, Sue Ellen moved to Methuen then Salem NH following her retirement. She dedicated her entire 41-year career to Stevens Memorial Library. Her first job was as a library page in high school and retired as its director in 2007. She was proud of her part in the major building expansion and technology upgrade during her tenure. Tireless in her volunteering at various charities associated with St Patrick's Church, Lawrence and St Monica's Church, Methuen she supported and helped to feed the needy in the community. Sue Ellen was a prayer warrior leading the Rosary and prayers in parish ministries for shut ins and those in need at St Joseph, Salem NH. As a member of the Merrimack College Alumni Choral she would spend a full day at Christmas time singing at area hospitals and nursing homes spreading joy! Sue Ellen made sure all God's creatures were well cared for including making sure wild birds were fed and feral cats had enough food. She worked with the MSPCA getting some of her beloved feral's to the point they got their forever homes. Donations may be made to MSPCA, Nevins 400 Broadway, Methuen, Ma, Cor Unum 191 Salem St Lawrence, Ma or the charity of one's choice. Family of Sue Ellen would like to extend special thanks to the ER doctors, nurses and staff of Parkland Hospital, Derry and High Pointe hospice, Haverhill, Ma for their kindness and care. Family and friends may call Monday September 23, 2024 from 10:00 to 11:00 at John Breen Memorial Funeral Home, 35 Merrimack St., North Andover, Ma. Her funeral mass will be celebrated following the wake at 11:30 a.m. in St Michael's Church 196 Main ST North Andover. Burial will take place at a later date. For online condolences and other information please visit us at www.breenfuneralhome.com.

Sue Ellen Holmes

October 4, 1950 - September 18, 2024