Oris Edwin Holloway, Jr.

Oris Edwin Holloway, Jr. (Ed), of Wake Forest, NC passed peacefully at home surrounded by family on Sunday, July 30, 2023, at the age of 81. He was born in New Bern, North Carolina to the late Oris Edwin and Mae Mayo Holloway on July 4, 1942.

Ed graduated from New Bern High School in 1960 and subsequently from North Carolina State University with a major in Food Science in 1964. During his long and productive career in the food industry, he worked with FMC Corporation, M&M Mars, and the Planters Division of RJR Nabisco. During his tenure with Planters, Ed was granted thirteen separate patents for products and processes the company implemented, including the process for creating honey roasted peanuts. After retiring from Planters in 1997, Ed formed his own company, providing expert level independent consulting services to the food industry worldwide.

Ed was an avid woodworker. While his incredible attention to detail allowed him to create many beautifully handcrafted pieces, his immeasurable kindness and generosity prompted him to gift these treasured items to numerous friends and family over the years. Ed’s joy and satisfaction from completing these wonderful pieces was only eclipsed by the many grateful smiles he received in return for his gifts.

He is survived by Joyce, his loving wife of 59 years, and his two daughters and sons-in-law, Lesley Parker (Don) of Cary, NC, and Paige Russell (Scott) of Wake Forest, NC. His four grandchildren are Will and Ben Parker and Hannah and Natalie Russell.

He was a dedicated and cherished member of Trinity Baptist Church where his Celebration of Life Service will be held on Thursday, August 10, 2023, at 2:00pm. The service will be officiated by Dr. Jeff Roberts. Friends will be received one hour prior to the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Trinity Baptist Church.