Pastor Edward Wayne Holland

Pastor Edward Wayne Holland, beloved husband, father, grandfather, minister, and dedicated member of the Mardela Springs community, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at the age of 84. Born on July 13, 1940, in Berlin, MD, Wayne grew up on a farm, where he cultivated his strong work ethic and deep appreciation for nature. He was a son of the late Edward Lester Holland and Nadine Hudson Holland.
Wayne's commitment to his country was demonstrated through his service in the U.S. Army from 1959 to 1962. After his military service, he worked as a meat cutter at the Giant in Salisbury before answering the call to ministry. He enrolled at United Wesleyan College, where he prepared to dedicate his life to serving others. Wayne became a pastor who profoundly impacted the lives of many, most notably during his time at Mardela Wesleyan Church and his current role at Athol Baptist Church in Mardela Springs, a position he held with honor since April 13, 2013. He also enjoyed singing in the Athol Baptist choir.
In addition to his ministry, Wayne took joy in the simple pleasures of life. He had a love-hate relationship with his cat, Scooter, but is remembered as a lover of animals. He loved tending to his yard and enjoyed cutting grass, reflecting his nurturing spirit. Wayne cherished traveling with his wife, Bonnie, particularly reveling in trips to Lancaster, PA, and Gatlinburg, TN, where they would enjoy gospel music concerts together. A passionate sports fan, Wayne played golf in his youth and remained a loyal supporter of the Baltimore Orioles throughout his life.
Wayne is survived by his loving wife, Bonnie Holland, who stood by his side through thick and thin; and children from a previous marriage, including sons, Brian Edward Holland of Marion, NC and Kevin Wayne Holland of Falls Church, VA; and a daughter, Michelle Holland Rinker of Whitney Point, NY; grandchildren, Chelsea Rinker and Josiah Holland; great grandson, Cooper Rinker; brothers, Ronald (Pat), Richard (Cheryl), Stanley (Ola), Gilbert (Christine), and Benny (Carol); sister, Cheryl Holland; and many nieces and nephews. His legacy will live on in the hearts of the many individuals and families he touched throughout his life and ministry. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a grandson, Chad Rinker.
A visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 at Short Funeral Home in Delmar, and also on Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00, followed by a funeral service which begins at 11:00. Interment with military honors will follow at Springhill Memory Gardens in Hebron.
To honor Pastor Wayne, the family has asked for memorial donations to be made to Athol Baptist Church, 8306 Baptist Church Road, Mardela Springs, MD 21837 or to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation by visiting https://dogood.t2t.org/give.
Arrangements are in the care of Short Funeral Home in Delmar. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.shortfh.com.