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Don Hollandsworth, 45, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, April 8, 2024. He is preceded in death by his beloved mother, Nancy Hollandsworth, and aunt, Alice Johnson.
He left many to cherish his memory: his precious daughter, Isabella and her mother, Vanessa Hollandsworth; his father Mark (Cheri) Hollandsworth; siblings: Michelle Hollandsworth, Marc Hollandsworth, and Melinda (Will) Rolle; nieces, Madison and Mackenzie Rolle, and nephew, Wayne (Kelly) Garrett; great niece, Lucille; and countless friends that have turned into family over the years.
Donny was a Merrillville High School graduate of 1997. He then received his bachelor’s degree in history from Indiana University. He was part of the Urban Education Teacher Program. He found his passion for teaching at Thea Bowman Leadership Academy in Gary. He then taught at Chesterton Middle School and fulfilled his other passion of coaching football and basketball. His most current position was teaching at East Chicago Central Highschool while coaching tennis. Donny was a friend to all. He could light up any room with his smile and humor. He enjoyed music, especially if there was a microphone in his hand. He would never turn away from a trivia night. Sports were such a love, whether it was playing, watching, or coaching. He was a huge fan of Indiana University and Chicago’s Blackhawks, Bears, Bulls, and Cubs. He loved to travel and make great memories with his family. It was his life’s goal to visit all the Major League Baseball Parks throughout the country, which will be completely accomplished in his honor. Bella was the center of Donny’s world, and she will carry his legacy on with his joy, passion, and smile.
A memorial visitation will be held on Friday, April 19, 2024, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Redina Funeral Home (5100 Cleveland Street, Gary, Indiana 46408). If you knew Donny, you loved Donny. We all know that Donny would greatly appreciate everyone wearing something from one of his favorite sports team. In lieu of flowers, please consider making all donations to Donny’s daughter, Isabella Hollandsworth.
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What a beautiful tribute! May you rest in peace my brother. Thank you for loving Isabella and being the best father to her. She loves you so much and has wonderful memories to cherish. We will make sure she is well taken care of and will continue your legacy of enjoying life to its fullest. God Bless you Don. Love, Angela
My good friend Donny. You were one of a kind and will be sorely missed by your family and friends. I will surely remember all of the good times, late night talks, and sporting events galore, but what I will remember most is you always being a friend through good times and bad. The world is a little darker without your laughter and light to brighten up our days. It was an honor to be your friend and we will keep your memory in our hearts. Farewell my friend.
Our heartfelt condolences!
My best friend and running mate! He will forever be in my heart. His East Chicago Central family loved him and embraced him like family. Rest in power my friend….GO CUBS!!!!!!!!
What a wonderful tribute to my “other partner.” May you find your rest, frend. It was a pleasure knowing you. #EC
Coach Hollandsworth was such a joy and comforting person to have met and connected with. He may have not been my coach while in high school, but he never failed to exclude me or treat me with any care. His love for sports and his students was something I admired and will miss. May he rest well and be at peace.
I am so hear broken by this loss of my cousin. He was an amazing human being. Godspeed Don. RIP
Coach Hollandsworth was such a joy to be around. I admired his ability to motivate those around him and his honest advice. It was an honor to be able to know him, and I saw how much he cared for his students and wanted them to succeed. He will be dearly missed.