Debra A. (Desroches) Holmes, 54, of Hastings Rd., Ashburnham, died peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family on Friday, September 24, 2010, after an eight year courageous battle with breast cancer.

    She leaves her husband of 25 years, Leslie G. Holmes, Sr.; two daughters, Cassandra M. Holmes of Ashburnham and Melissa J. Tracey of Penacook, NH; a son, Leslie G. Holmes, Jr. of East Brookfield; her mother, Marcia (LaPrade) Desroches of Holden; sister, Darlene Belisle of Holden; five brothers, Douglas Desroches of Shrewsbury, Donald Desroches of Duxbury, David and Daniel Desroches, both of Holden, and Dennis Desroches of Granby; five grandchildren; many nephews and nieces. She was born and raised in Holden, the daughter of the late Herbert Desroches and lived 22 years in Ashburnham.

    Debra graduated from Wachusett Regional High School in 1973 and worked as an engineering administrator for Process Cooling Systems in Leominster. She enjoyed gardening, kayaking, vacationing at Old Orchard Beach and many other outdoor activities. Debra will be deeply missed by her family and many friends.

    Relatives and friends are invited to attend calling hours from 5 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, September 28, at the Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main St., Holden. A private graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, October 1, at Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton. Debra’s family suggests that donations in her name be made to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation , P.O. Box 650309, Dallas, TX, 75265-0309.