Orin Wayne Holland

A man of giant intellect and heart, Orin Wayne Holland of Mt. Juliet, Tennessee, beloved father and grandfather and world-renowned scientist, was united with God on October 4, 2025.

Wayne was cherished by family and friends for his wisdom, strength, and generosity. In times of hardship or struggle, there was no one on earth you'd rather have by your side.

You could always count on Pappy, as his grandchildren affectionately called him, for the warmest hospitality and attentive care. 

Wayne grew up in Beaumont, Texas, graduated from Lamar University, and earned a Ph.D. in Physics from the University of North Texas.

His scientific career included more than 20 years at Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Tennessee as well as stints in the private sector and academia. His research focused primarily on ion-implantation technology related to microelectronics applications. He published voluminous research and presented at scientific conferences around the world.

He received the prestigious IR-100 Award in 1983, recognizing his work with supersaturated semiconductor alloys as one of the top 100 technological advancements worldwide that year. He was featured in an exhibit displayed for many years at the American Museum of Science and Energy in Oak Ridge.

Prior to his career, he served honorably in the United States Marine Corps, attaining the rank of Captain.

Wayne relished testing his limits in athletic challenges and adventures and inspired family and friends to join him. He hiked hundreds of miles in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, completed a non-stop, "rim-to-rim-to-rim" Grand Canyon hike in his 50s, and ran track at the Tennessee Senior Olympics.

His energetic mind rarely idled. He loved to engage in deep conversations about philosophy, relationships, human nature, and the mysteries of the universe.

He also had a razor-sharp wit and was never at a loss for words. He could paint the town in Las Vegas with infectious revelry.

Wayne is preceded in death by his mother, Merita Holland; fathers Edgar Holland (adoptive) and Bob Dupree (birth); and brothers Daniel Dupree, Eddie Holland, and Larry Holland.

He is survived by his children Laurie Lee, Brian Holland, and Jason Holland; grandchildren Harper Lee, Hannah Lee, and Bryce Holland; brothers Curtis Holland and Jimmy Holland; and sisters Joyce Dupree, Cindy Holland Cockerham, and Cathy Holland Cross.

In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to the Lewy Body Dementia Association by following the link posted below.