Rodney Clay Hollingsworth Sr.

Rodney Clay Hollingsworth Sr., lovingly known as “Big Rod,” passed away at his home in Nesbit, Mississippi on September 20, 2026. He was born in Houston, Mississippi on July 11, 1951.

Rodney built a life marked by hard work, skill, and pride in what he did. He attended Whitehaven High School in Memphis, Tennessee, and went on to work as a welder and boilermaker. He was the owner-operator of Hollingsworth Boiler and Tank Company in Nesbit, Mississippi, and was also a member of Local Union #263 in Memphis, Tennessee. Those who knew him understood the value he placed on honest labor, craftsmanship, and making a life with his own hands.

Outside of work, Rodney found joy in the things he loved most. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, going to the beach, and racing. He especially loved being in his shop, where stories and tall tales were often shared on “Hollingsworth Hill.” He was proud of his place and took great pleasure in cruising around “Hollingsworth Hill” on his golf cart, enjoying the life and home he had built.

More than anything, Rodney treasured his family. He loved all of his grandchildren, who knew him affectionately as Papaw, and that name carried with it warmth, laughter, and love.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Hollingsworth; his daughter, Stacey Sowell, and her husband, Chris, of Hernando, Mississippi; his son, Rodney Hollingsworth Jr., known as “Little Rod,” and his wife, Shannon, of Hernando, Mississippi; and his cherished grandchildren, Madeline, Macie, Ryan, and John Abram. He was preceded in death by his parents, D.D. Hollingsworth and Melba Hollingsworth.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 24, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at Riverbend Church, 173 Kapik Rd, Hernando, Mississippi. The funeral service will follow at 1:00 p.m. at Riverbend Church. Interment will take place at Nesbit Cemetery, 1061 Nesbit Road, Hernando, Mississippi.

Rodney will be remembered for his strength, his stories, his deep pride in his work and home, and the love he gave so freely to those closest to him. His memory will live on in the family he cherished and in the many moments shared on Hollingsworth Hill.

In lieu of flowers the family ask that you consider making donation in Rodney Hollingsworth's name to the charity of your choice.