Cheryl Ann Holden, 60, of Garden City, passed away peacefully on April 3, 2026. Born on May 11, 1965, she was the beloved daughter of the late Alfred Holden Jr. and Veronica (Szymanski) Holden.
A proud 1991 graduate of the Special Education Program at Edsel Ford High School, Cheryl spent many years working with the STEP program. She was a woman who found pure joy in life's simple pleasures. Whether she was singing, dancing, coloring, or watching her favorite VHS tapes, Cheryl's vibrant spirit was always on display. She had an enduring love for music and a legendary appreciation for special treats—especially Rice Krispie treats, ice cream, popcorn puffs, and Peeps. Nothing, however, quite compared to her favorite meal: a McDonald's fish sandwich with fries and a Diet Coke.
Cheryl's life was enriched by the incredible care of Connie Grant, whose long-time love and dedication meant the world to her, as well as the compassionate staff at the Real Place group home.
She is survived by her siblings, Kathleen (Jack) Harrison and Kevin (Lorie) Holden, and her sister-in-law, Raye Holden Poet. Cheryl was a cherished aunt to Timothy (Eva) and Michael (Sarah) Harrison; Dylan (Tayler), Derek, Reed, Matthew, and Ross (Reegan) Holden; and Carlie (Kevin) Goldsmith. She also leaves behind a legacy of love with her great-nephews and nieces: Emma, Sean, Charlie, Layla, Henry, Tucker, Brooks, Walker, Meridith, Mallory, and MacKenzie. Cheryl now joins her parents and her brothers, Charles and David Holden, who preceded her in death.
Her bright smile and joyful heart will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

A funeral mass will take place at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 22430 Michigan Ave. Dearborn, Michigan on Saturday, April 11th at 10:00am with family greeting friends beginning at 9:30am. Cheryl has been entrusted into the care of Howe-Peterson Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 22546 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn Mi. 48127, 313-561-1500.