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Retired law enforcement officers hold reunion
A reunion for retired law enforcement officers, started years ago by brothers Bob, 83, and Jack Hollingsworth, 81, at their Long Lake Camp, was held Saturday, Aug. 15.
VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — Local retired law enforcement officers, jailers, judges, constables and other gathered for a reunion at Levee Street Warehouse today, Aug. 15.
What began as a small get together for a barbecue in a back yard has grown over the years. The reunion for retired law enforcement officers, started years ago when brothers Bob and Jack Hollingsworth, invited fellow officers over at their Long Lake Camp. Now the event is anticipated each year and expanded to welcome retired officers from all over the state.
Bob Hollingsworth retired in 1992, 34 years ago. Hollingsworth started with the Vicksburg Police Department in 1962 riding a motorcycle. He then joined the Alcohol Beverage Control in 1966. “I went to work for the ABC in 1966, the year it was organized,” said Hollingsworth. “I stayed with them until and then went to the Jackson PD and retired from them.”
“Bob was living on Thompson Lake and we all got together, just a handful of us and started doing this. And it grew. And it grew,” explained Jack Hollingsworth. “Billy Sheffield was with us and he said, well let’s go down to the (city pavilion). We went there for two years but it got to where they wanted us to hire security. So Billy said, well, let’s go out to my house.”
Jack Hollingsworth also laughed and pointed out that nearly all the attendees were able to serve as security.
Sheffield has hosted the event for years at the Levee Street Warehouse location.
“He’s always taken care of us and supplied everything,” said Jack Hollingsworth.
Billy Sheffield was a constable for many years and his wife, Pauline, served as a Justice Court Judge.
The Sheffield/Heggins Family once again hosted this year at their property on Levee Street Warehouse. The luncheon began with a prayer of Thanksgiving. Good natured conversation ensued along with a generous buffet of catfish, gumbo, rice, coleslaw and many other sides and desserts.
About 60 retired deputies, officers, jailers, troopers, constables, chief’s and spouses enjoyed the yearly reunion.
For more photos see Vicksburg Daily News Facebook page.
