Gloria Cady Hollingsworth's Obituary
Gloria went to glory on December 18, 2022. She was born on January 10, 1929, in Ashtabula, Ohio. She was preceded in death by her husband, Bill Hollingsworth; her parents, Shirley Terry and Velma Irene; and her brothers, Shirley Terry, William Alfred, and Warren Rae.
She is survived by five nieces and nephews: Pamela Cady, Steven T. Cady (Beth), William Cady, Julie Cady, and Lori Manley; seven great-nieces and -nephews and two great-great-nephews; as well as Bill’s two sons, Rick and Jon, and daughter, Susan, and his six grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.
Gloria had a fulfilling life. She was a graduate from Kent State, earning her master’s degree in teaching. This ultimately led to her becoming the director of principals in Cleveland, Ohio, guiding 20 principals in the school district. She was a leader in education for 30 years.
She was a member of the Alpha Chi Omega sorority and a longtime member of the P.E.O. Sisterhood. Later, she became the president of the Clearwater Alumnae Panhellenic and was awarded the Panhellenic achievement award. Gloria was also passionate about the arts and served as a leader to further the arts in Clearwater.
Upon retirement, she moved to Clearwater, Florida, and met the love of her life, Bill Hollingsworth. Among many other charitable efforts, they were involved in the opening of a mall for veterans returning home, and, together with a group of dedicated friends, Bill and Gloria were proud supporters of The Abilities Guild and both served as its president.
She enjoyed music, dancing, tennis, art, skiing, and traveling. One of her friends recently shared this: “There was only one Gloria. Everything about her was technicolored. Her warmth enveloped everyone around her. Her kindness, sense of humor, and empathy were so special.”
The family appreciates the dedication of Hospice, Church of Ascension, and her loving caregiver, LouAnne Ramsey.
For those who would like to gather and celebrate Gloria, a celebration of life will be held on January 21 from 11am to 2pm at the Belleair Country Club (1 Country Club Ln., Belleair, FL.). We look forward to hearing from those who loved her as you share your own story on how she touched your lives.
Raise a glass to our special lady!
What’s your fondest memory of Gloria?
What’s a lesson you learned from Gloria?
Share a story where Gloria's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Gloria you’ll never forget.
How did Gloria make you smile?