Background of Residence
In December, a 55-year-old woman named Rhea Holmes was discovered living at Oakwood Cemetery in Syracuse, New York. Her residence in the cemetery began after her husband, Eddie Holmes, died suddenly of a heart attack in October 2020. This occurred on the same day an offer on a house they intended to purchase was accepted.
Holmes reportedly used the house down payment to acquire a cemetery plot for her husband. Following these events, she experienced financial difficulties, lost her employment, and was evicted from her home. She subsequently began residing at her husband's grave within the cemetery, stating,
"This is what I purchased."
From May 2025, Holmes volunteered at a local food pantry during the day and slept in the cemetery at night, reportedly undetected.
Police Intervention and Assistance
In December, a retired officer working at the cemetery observed Holmes and contacted law enforcement. Syracuse Police Officer Jamie Pastorello responded to the call.
Officer Pastorello provided immediate assistance, funding a hotel room for Holmes. He then connected her with the president of LeMoyne College, who arranged for Holmes to stay on campus during the winter break.
Additionally, Pastorello initiated a crowdfunding campaign and facilitated contact with A Tiny Home for Good, a nonprofit organization that offers affordable tiny homes to individuals in need. Holmes was able to move into one of these available tiny homes.
Outcome
Holmes expressed gratitude to Officer Pastorello during a subsequent reunion. The new housing arrangement is intended to provide a stable living situation.