Velma Holden

VELMA S. "SHERYL" HOLDEN

Iowa City

Velma S. "Sheryl" Holden, 73, of Iowa City, loved by all who knew her, died of Alzheimer's disease Tuesday, Dec. 20, 2016, at Solon Nursing Care Center.

Mass of Christian Burial is 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 28, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Iowa City. The Very Rev. Rudolph Juarez will officiate. Visitation is Tuesday, Dec. 27, from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Lensing Funeral & Cremation Service in Iowa City.

Sheryl was born Oct. 1, 1943, in Jefferson, Iowa, the daughter of Lester and Velma Jones Gift. Sheryl taught elementary school in Jefferson and Des Moines and married Dr. Palmer Holden in 1974. Sheryl continued teaching until her son, Daniel, was born. She became a full-time homemaker until he graduated from high school and then was a substitute teacher.

Sheryl was a member of St. Cecilia's Catholic Church circle and choir in Ames, American Legion Auxiliary, Iowa State University's Women's Club, including president from 2007 to 2008, and an adult literacy volunteer, receiving the Governor's Award.

In 2007, Sheryl was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. She and Palmer moved to Iowa City in the fall of 2011 to be near Daniel and April and their children. Sheryl moved to assisted care in December 2013 and to Solon in March 2016.

She enjoyed cooking, baking and sharing events and time with her family.

Sheryl is survived by her husband, Dr. Palmer Holden; son, Daniel (April), and grandchildren, Laird and Nadia; brothers, Bill Gift (Marilyn) and Don; and several nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Alzheimer's Association or a charitable organization of the donor's choice.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.lensingfuneral.com.