Clarence Alton Hollingsworth, Jr.

Clarence Alton Hollingsworth, Jr.

Clarence Alton “Al” Hollingsworth, Jr. passed away peacefully, at the age of 93, on March 21, 2026, at his home in Port Gibson, Mississippi, surrounded by his loving family after a brief illness.

Al was born in Greenville, Mississippi, on April 7, 1932, to Clarence Alton Hollingsworth, Sr. and Bertha (Castleberry) Hollingsworth. Raised in the Mississippi Delta, he graduated from Greenville High School and, as an only son, carried his family name with pride.

He served his country in the National Guard with the same dedication he showed to family throughout his life. Even in his youth, his curiosity and adventurous spirit were evident.

In 1949, Al, his cousin Tommy Glasco, and their friend Lloyd Dyer began building a small-scale replica of a sternwheel riverboat, the Huck Finn. In the summer of 1950, the three high school students sailed it down the Mississippi River from Greenville to New Orleans—an experience later documented in a family book, The Story of the Huck Finn.

Following this adventure, Al attended and graduated from Mississippi State University, where he studied engineering and business. While there, he was a member of Kappa Sigma fraternity and remained a lifelong fan of the MSU Bulldogs—Hail State!

On December 22, 1956, he married Elizabeth Shaifer Hollingsworth. Meeting in Mississippi, Al and Libby transformed the lives of those who knew them. Devoted husband and fierce protector of his family, Al devoted his life to building his family and showing them how to love and serve well.

His career took the family to Natchez, Mississippi, Hanford, California and Connecticut. In 1976, they purchased and restored an historic home, the Seth Bishop House (1796) in Guilford, Connecticut, a project that reflected their shared passion for historic preservation.

As an executive with Armstrong Tire, Al chose family over corporate expectations, often foregoing social obligations to be present at home. He served alongside Libby as an engaged parent to Allison, Ann, and Chris, and as an active member of their community.

A long-time member of the Presbyterian Church (USA), he was ordained a ruling elder. In retirement, he and Libby returned to Port Gibson, Mississippi, to care for her parents and invest in their family’s legacy. He was a member of The First Presbyterian Church of Natchez.

The Hollingsworth’s shared a deep love of history. Al became a devoted leader in historic preservation, serving as Port Gibson Main Street Manager and contributing at both local and national levels. His work included roles with The Guilford Preservation Alliance, the Mississippi Heritage Trust, the Port Gibson Heritage Trust (founding member), and the Mississippi Historical Society. He also supported the Mississippi Department of Archives and History and championed the preservation of the Port Gibson Battlefield.

Al and Libby treasured time with loved ones, especially summers and Christmases in Connecticut. They were avid fans of the UCONN Huskies Women’s Basketball team. In 2011, they became Mississippi Master Gardeners.

In 2016, Al was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Libby. He is survived by his loving family: daughters, Allison Hollingsworth Moxey (Andrew), Ann Hollingsworth Weeden, and his son, Christopher Alton Hollingsworth (Rosemary).

Al was the proud “Pop” to eight grandchildren, Tyler Andrew Moxey, Ashley Shaifer Moxey Rissmiller (Seth), Todd Davidson Moxey, Alexander John Weeden, Samuel Bellenoit Weeden, Colin Andrew Hollingsworth (Lizzie), Julia Elizabeth Hollingsworth Free (Cody) and Ryan James Hollingsworth, 3 great-grandchildren, Wyatt Jett Rissmiller, Elizabeth “Libby” Rose Hollingsworth and Jensen Milo Free as well as many relatives and friends.

Al’s legacy lives on in the deep love, acceptance, and joy he gave so freely to his family and friends. His presence shaped their lives through shared experiences, thoughtful generosity, and an unwavering commitment to being there for each of them. He took great pride in being “Pop” to such a remarkable family. His bright smile, humor and positive spirit were such a gift to everyone.

As we honor the life of Al Hollingsworth, let us be reminded that it was his unfailing, unyielding and unshakeable faith that best represented him.

A celebration of life will take place at the First Presbyterian Church in Port Gibson, MS on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at 11:00 am. Visitation will be prior to the service at 10:00 am. A graveside service will follow in Wintergreen cemetery.

Contributions may be made to Community Foundation for Mississippi, 119 South President Street, 1 st Floor, Jackson, MS 39201 or The First Presbyterian Church of Natchez, MS 400 State Street, Natchez, MS 39120.

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