Rosemary T. Willard

Rosemary “Rose” Teresa (Callahan) Willard, 78, longtime resident of Holyoke and beloved wife of 15 years to Brian K. Willard, passed away on Monday, July 14, 2025, at Holyoke Medical Center with her loving family at her side. Rose was born on August 16, 1946, in Springfield, MA, a daughter of Walter and Rita (Mould) Callahan, she was raised and educated in Springfield and was a graduate of Classical High School. She was a receptionist for over 25 years at Pioneer Spine and Sport in West Springfield and was a parishioner of Blessed Sacrament Church in Holyoke. Rose enjoyed bowling and belonged to a league that bowled at Riverdale Lanes in West Springfield and also enjoyed her many trips to Foxwoods Casino to play Bingo. She leaves her beloved husband, Brian of Holyoke, siblings, John Callahan and his wife, Maria of Hutto, TX, and Carol Kokosa and her husband, Mickey of Springfield, brothers in law, Bruce Willard and his wife Robbin of Westerly, RI and David Willard and his wife, Hanna of Vacaville, CA, numerous nieces and nephews and extended family members and friends. In addition to her parents, she was also predeceased by her brother, Robert “Bob” Callahan. Family and friends are invited to gather on Monday, July 21, for a period of visitation for Rose from 4 – 6 PM at Messier Funeral Home, 1944 Northampton St., Holyoke, followed by a service at 6 PM in the funeral home. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations in Rosemary’s name may be made to Shriners Children’s Pediatric Hospital, 516 Carew St., Springfield, MA 01104. For more information and online condolences please visit www.messierfuneralhome.com