Obstetrician-gynecologist in Waterbury Richard Holden died at 71: obituary

Posted by Lorie Orum on Saturday, May 18, 2024

Southbury, CT – Dr. Richard C. Holden, a revered Obstetrician-gynecologist in Waterbury, sadly passed away in New Haven, Connecticut, on Tuesday, December 12, 2023, at the age of 71. Associated Women’s Health Specialists, P.C. shared the somber news of his passing after a brief illness.

Born on March 7, 1952, in London, England, to the late Patrick Cornish Holden and Jean Fisher Holden, Richard’s family relocated to the United States during his youth. He pursued his education at Western Reserve Academy in Ohio and completed his undergraduate studies at Yale University. His medical journey led him to Yale New Haven Hospital for his residency following his graduation from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, where he was honored with the prestigious Peter T. Kilgour Prize.

Joining Associated Women’s Health Specialists, P.C. in Waterbury in 1982, Richard dedicated 38 years as a partner obstetrician and gynecologist. He resided in Southbury, Connecticut, for an extended period and, with his wife Cyndie, recently retired to East Wallingford, Vermont.

Aside from his medical career, Richard Holden was deeply passionate about music, sharing this love with his three children. He actively participated in various choruses, including the Yale Glee Club & Alumni Chorus, the Waterbury Chorale, and church choirs, notably at Grace Church Rutland and UCC Southbury.

Associated Women’s Health Specialists, P.C. posted on Facebook,

“We are saddened to share the passing of Dr. Richard Holden on December 12, 2023 after a brief illness. Dr. Holden joined the practice in 1982 and was a partner for 38 years. He retired from the practice that he loved in 2021. “As is a tale, so is a life: Not how long it is, but how good it is, is what matters”.
Everyone is welcome to join the family in celebrating his life Saturday, January 13, 2024 at 11am at the United Church of Christ in Southbury, CT.”

Richard and Cyndie’s shared love for gardening led them to create stunning flower gardens at their homes, culminating in their completion of the UVM Master Gardener program. They were actively involved in restoring The Boy and the Boot garden at Wallingford House and initiated Rutland’s Companions in Wholeness program as a form of community outreach.

His adventurous spirit embraced travel, skiing, and a keen appreciation for food and wine. Richard’s travels included experiences like ascending Machu Picchu, swimming in the hot springs of the Arenal Volcano, fishing in the Sea of Galilee, and exploring South Africa’s safaris.

A celebration of Dr. Richard Holden’s life will take place at the United Church of Christ in Southbury, CT, on Saturday, January 13, 2024, at 11:00 AM, followed by a reception at the church. Additionally, the family plans a special burial ceremony this spring in Ludlow, VT, details to be announced.

ncG1vNJzZmiin5fAo7vTrGWcp51kvKO%2F056rq6GTnq6vecaypZ6bn6G8qLXSrWSipl2srrWx0Zusq7Fdp7aktMCrm2agn6GxprqMnaCenF2WwW6DkGamm6Gkqq6zxY4%3D