Marlin passed away on Monday, April 20, 2020, at his residence surrounded by his loving family. He was born on August 12, 1935 to Manley Eugene and Bertie Mae Hollingsworth. He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter in-law Sharon Hicks; and grandson, Jacob Ross Harris.
Survivors include his wife, Essie Mae Hollingsworth; sons Danny Hicks, Garry Hicks (Ginger); daughters Cindy Lewis ( Jerry) and Becky Harris (Doug); grandchildren Kim Holmes (Mark), Shane Hicks (Christy), Amy Riggs Moore (Jason), Kyle Dunlap, Blake Lewis (Carlee) and Jessica Beard (Shelton). He also had 11 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild.
Marlin was one of Straight Mountain’s true treasures and one of Auburn University’s most knowledgeable fruit and vegetable researchers. Marlin received his BS Degree in Agricultural Education from the Alabama Polytechnic Institute now known as Auburn University. Marlin returned to Auburn to begin his graduate work when the Dean of Agriculture offered him the Assistant Superintendent of the North Alabama Sub-Station in Cullman. He was soon named Superintendent and continued in that role for 38 years. Marlin was involved with many research projects that included variety development, crop yields, cultural programs, and pest management.
The professional associations included: The American and Alabama Horticulture Society, The Entomology Society, Auburn University Experiment Station Superintendents. He received the United States Distinguished Service Award for his extraordinary service and personal dedication in advancement of sweet potato industry, Progressive Farmer Magazine Man of the Year and member of Gamma Sigma Delta. He was involved in his community and served as an officer and member of the Civitan Club. He was a long time member of First United Methodist Church.
Marlin was an enthusiastic Auburn Sports fan. He was an avid hunter, fisherman and golfer. He and his wife Essie enjoyed many years of traveling throughout the United States and Canada after their retirement.
Marlin will always be remembered for his quick wit, colorful stories and laughter that he inspired. He was loved and will be dearly missed by his family and friends.
The family request that in lieu of flowers donations may be made to The Jacob Harris Memorial Scholarship at Wallace State Community College or First United Methodist Church.
Please visit mossservicefh.com to leave condolences for the family.
Moss Service Funeral Home Directing.
