Born in the London borough of Islington at the city of London, Maternity Hospital on January 31st 1961 to Ronald Holmes and Sheila. A child of four she had her sister Lin, brothers Kevin and Steven. Elaine spent most of her formative years in Stanmore, Middlesex. Elaine attended Sunday school and had a paperound in this area. Elaine fell pregnant with her first child in 1977, a daughter Karen, she was expecting whilst working at the local fish and chip shop and used to sneak saveloys in her overalls, her family remember the distinct smell of fried food. Elaine had known Paul Watkin when she was young and they officially became a couple when Karen was 18 months old, they had a strong relationship and had a much loved child Sherryn. Elaine lived in Pinner, Luton, Watford, Garston and various other places in Hertfordshire. She worked hard throughout her life, she worked in admin, she created a creche for young children and even did door security at the Orbital community centre. Everyone that met Elaine knew that she had a heart of gold, she would give you her last pound but she would also give you her honest opinion she wouldnt sugar coat she would be direct. All of the people that have been in her life have been touched by her in a way that it would be impossile for them to forget. Most recently her partner John who supported her and ensured she was looked after. There were people that were with her towards the end when luckily she had an opportunity to speak to them and recount stories she remembered, always a great tale teller she held court with them all...possibly remembering tales people didn't want to recount. Uncle Joe's ghost stories, Lin not lending her the spirograph or her blue pencil, Kevin being babysat at the local disco, Steven taking things apart and not putting them back together. Christine cooking Lasagne when pregnant with Emma and supporting her after the birth of her first child, her daughter Karen having 18 drinks on her 18th birthday and singing about it before picking the wallpaper of the walls. Sherryn having her mothers look of suspicion. Her girls not having their babies yet even though they promised. Laughing at Pauls hair after he had it cut for big school and so many more. Our family were very lucky to spend that time with Elaine, she had such a clear memory of the past, she was the life and soul of the party...but more, much more than this she did it her way! xxxxxx