It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Guillemette Holder on Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026 at her home.

Guillemette was born on Nov. 7, 1939 in Le Mans, France, during the German Occupation of France.

Her ancestors had been part of the Royal Court of Louis XVI, a fact of which she was very proud.

She grew up in France but also lived in Mexico and the U.S. as an adult. France however, was always her true love, and she enjoyed sharing all things French with friends and family.

In the 1970s Guillemette taught French literature at University Wesleyan in Bloomington, Illinois, and nearly earned her doctorate degree. Guillemette had a passion for Italian and learned to speak it, her fourth language, at the age of 60.

She greatly valued her friends and put great effort into building deep close relationships.

She was very social here in Santa Barbara and involved with the Music Academy of the West, book clubs, Italian conversation club, and French club to name a few.

She was a devoted mother and leaves behind three children, five grandchildren, and two great grandchildren.

Guillemette will be deeply missed and forever remembered for the love and laughter she brought into our lives with her quick and witty sense of humor.

A memorial service will be held 3-5 p.m. Feb. 7 at her home, 1010 San Roque Road, Santa Barbara. All who loved her are welcome to attend.