Dr. Mack R. Holdiness MD, PhD

Mack R. Holdiness, MD, PhD, passed away at his home on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at the age of 68. He was born in Bastrop, Louisiana and graduated Salutatorian from Prairie View Academy in 1974. He went on to receive both his bachelor’s and master’s degree from Northeast Louisiana University in Chemistry in 1976 and 1977 respectively. Mack received his PhD in Chemistry from Emory University in 1981and his MD from Louisiana State University in 1985. From there he completed his residency at Tulane University in 1988. He worked in private practice as an internal medicine physician from 1988 until 2020. He also was the Medical Director of River Oaks Psychiatric Hospital until 2024.

In his free time, he loved to travel to Bermuda and New York City. He was a self-appointed foodie who loved to share his menus and cuisine on his food blog, otherwise known as Facebook. Mack’s father, a World War II veteran, imparted to him an appreciation for history. He taught Mack morse code and set him on his way to becoming a well-studied World War II history buff.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Gwendolyn McKoin Holdiness; and brother, Michael Holdiness.

Dr. Holdiness is survived by his wife of 13 years, Robbie Gail Romaine; son, Andrew Richard Holdiness; niece, Dr. Gwendolyn Holdiness Proctor (Dr. Drew); nephew, Michael Holdiness, Jr. (Heather); and sister-in-law, Linette Holdiness.

The family would like to express their gratitude to Haley Pierce with Palliative Care at Heart, Jennifer Sanchez of Heart of Hospice, and Dr. Thomas G. Nuttli.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to LA-SPCA, 1700 Mardi Gras Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70114, or Scottie Kingdom Rescue, P.O. Box 551265, Dallas, TX 75355.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a memorial service at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd in New Orleans, on Friday, May 23, 2025. Visitation will begin at 10 AM with the service to follow at 12 PM. Dr. Holdiness will be laid to rest in All Saints Mausoleum immediately following the service.