Suzy Elizabeth Poyas Holland

West Hartford, CT — Suzanne Elizabeth Kelly Poyas Holland (fondly known as “Suzy”), age 81, passed away peacefully on January 18, 2025, at her home in West Hartford, CT. Born in Brooklyn, NY, to Ann and William Kelly, Suzy lived a vibrant, adventure-filled life, leaving a trail of crazy memories and lots of laughter wherever she went. Suzy’s life was a ball of energy and warmth. As a child, she moved from Brooklyn to Atlanta, Kansas City, and eventually California, where her love for the West Coast began. After graduating from high school and junior college in San Rafael, CA, she married Robert Poyas and had Rob Poyas Jr. and Kelly Poyas Gerard. Together, they lived in San Clemente, San Francisco, and Novato before her journey led her to Agoura and Danville, where she met and married Robert Holland. Their life together continued in Fullerton, CA, and ultimately West Hartford, CT. Professionally, Suzy started her career in fashion with Joseph Magnin, then she sold real estate, and also coached children’s soccer. She worked as a preschool teacher and a volunteer at the Intensive Education Academy in West Hartford. Suzy’s social nature and productive energy helped her land the role of Senior Warden at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Fullerton, CA. Those who knew Suzy remember her as a force of nature with striking blue eyes that could light up a room with both her smile and volume. She was beyond generous, always the first to order appetizers (and always going overboard), and the last to bed when there was fun to be had. Suzy embraced life with unmatched optimism, humor, and a joy for her 5 grandchildren. She effortlessly made friends wherever she went. Her love for California remained steadfast, and her heart was firmly rooted with her family. Suzanne was a fiercely loyal friend she was and champion of all causes she considered unjust. She was a Red Sox fan, hated losing at anything, and occasionally she could cuss like a sailor! Her grandchildren were her greatest pride and joy. She adored Andrew (19), Gabby (18), Luke (18), Maya (16), and William (10), supporting them in any way they wished with fierce devotion. Suzy never missed an opportunity to embark on a family adventure — any trip, anywhere, anytime, with anyone who wanted to go. Suzy was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Holland (2011). She leaves behind her children Kelly and her husband Grant Gerard, and Robert Poyas, Jr.; her grandchildren; and her siblings, Virginia Crotty, Barbara Lencioni, and William Kelly. Her legacy of love, laughter, and living life to the fullest will forever be treasured by all who had the privilege of knowing her. A celebration of Suzy’s remarkable life will take place on January 26, 2025, with visitation from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Molloy Funeral Home 906 Farmington Ave. in West Hartford. In honor of her spirit, we invite family and friends to come together to share stories, laughter, and memories. Online expressions of sympathy can be shared at www.molloyfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers or donations, we ask that you raise a glass of your favorite drink and toast to Suzy (her favorite was a margarita with lots of salt on the rim)— the most optimistic, unforgettable, and loving soul we have ever known. Cheers to a life well-lived!