When a 55-year-old woman lost her job and got evicted, she took up residence at the only place she felt she owned, her husband's grave. Then, an "angel" came to her rescue. Steve Hartman has the story "On the Road."
Rhea Holmes, a 55-year-old widow in Syracuse, New York, lived at her husband’s grave for months after losing her job and home in May 2025. Syracuse Police Officer Jamie Pastorello discovered her in December 2025 and acted as her "angel," securing her a hotel, temporary housing, and a permanent, affordable tiny home.
Key Details of the Story:
- The Situation: Too proud to seek shelter, Holmes slept on the ground at the cemetery, stating she believed she would die there.
- The "Angel": Officer Jamie Pastorello found her after a cemetery worker reported her presence.
- The Solution: Within 20 days, Officer Pastorello, along with the nonprofit "A Tiny Home for Good," helped transition her from the cemetery to a stable, independent living situation.
- Outcome: Holmes has successfully moved into a new home and continues to visit her husband, but no longer resides at the cemetery.
