Eileen (Holden) Stewart, 71, of Melrose, MA, passed away peacefully on the morning of August 9th with the love of her family surrounding her after a short, but courageous battle with brain cancer. Eileen was born to the late George and Julia Holden on January 10, 1949, in Winthrop, MA. She grew up in Everett, MA, where she met many lifelong friends whom she adored. Eileen graduated from Everett High School in 1968. Eileen was a devoted wife to her childhood sweetheart, James Stewart whom she married on April 11, 1970. Over the past 50 years, they built a thriving sheet metal business and a loving family. Eileen is survived by her husband, James Stewart; her children, Scott Stewart and his fiancee Cheryl of Saugus, Craig Stewart and his wife Monique of Stoneham, and Shannon Markert of Billerica; her granddaughters that she cherished, Makayla, Gianna, Cassidy, and Brooklyn. Eileen leaves behind her sisters, Elaine (Holden) Mackay and her husband Joesph of Stoneham, June (Holden) Fopiano and Robert Christie of Seabrook, NH; and her brother, James Holden of Everett. She is also predeceased by her brothers William Holden and Robert Holden. In addition, Eileen is survived by many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends. Eileen's biggest accomplishment was being a loving and supportive mother to her children. She spent countless hours volunteering her time and was always involved in her children's activities as a softball and soccer coach. She opened up her house as a safe haven for her children's friends and loved them like her own. Eileen loved to travel with her husband; especially to Aruba. She also loved going to Mohegan Sun and Encore. Eileen was an avid bowler and played on the "Tuesday Fun League" in Wakefield. She filled many other roles, as a caring sister, a loyal friend, a good neighbor, and many more. But, regardless of how you knew her, or for how long, she was genuine, caring, and generous. Her love was unconditional, her advice always fair, and her support unwavering. Eileen had a heart of gold and will be missed greatly by everyone that knew her. Visiting hours will be held at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 W. Foster St., Melrose on Wednesday, August 12th from 4-8PM. Due to the current health crisis, funeral services & interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Pl, Memphis, TN 38105.