Ryan Holland

Ryan S. Holland, 53, died unexpectedly at home on Sept. 3, 2026, following a brief illness. He is survived by his mother, Geraldine F. (Musto) Holland, brother Shayne D. Holland, niece Ayla Holland, uncle Paul Musto and Roseanne, aunt Karen Musto and Bobby, cousins Renee and Lauren Carroll, many dear friends and his feline companion, Thomas. He is predeceased by his father, Alfred D. Holland.

Raised and educated in Hopkinton, Ryan graduated from Marian High School in 1991 and achieved his undergraduate degree from Clark University. He pursued his professional career in education, where for the past 28 years he devoted himself to his students in the Marlborough Public Schools Early Childhood Center. Adored by his students and colleagues alike, Mr. Holland was known for approaching each day with his unbroken optimism, being quick with humor and demonstrating faithful advocacy for special needs education. Greatly talented in the arts, he was an accomplished painter and skilled craftsman who inspired and encouraged countless young artists in the classroom. Outside of school, Ryan was a passionate, lifelong musician, guitarist, drummer and music aficionado. Throughout the years, he played in several bands and most enjoyed performing his classical flamenco melodies alongside his bandmates in Los Maestros.

Underneath his big beard and body art, Ryan was a creampuff who dedicated his life to teaching and caring for children. He was a devoted son, trusted brother, loving uncle and faithful friend who was always the first to help another in need.

A celebration of Ryan’s life will be held on Saturday, Sept. 19, from 2-5 p.m. at Firefly’s BBQ in Marlborough. Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Ryan S. Holland to Special Olympics Massachusetts, 512 Forest Street, Marlborough, MA 01752. Online condolences may be placed at philbincomeaufh.com.

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