APRIL 6, 2019 [updated with funeral details] — Ernest Frederick “Fritz” Hollings, a transformative South Carolina governor who had a 38-year career as a pragmatic, action-oriented United States senator, died today of natural causes in his home on Isle of Palms, S.C., his family announced today. He was 97.
Tall with a shock of white hair, Hollings often mesmerized colleagues with wit, intelligence and a deep Charleston brogue. On the Senate floor and on the campaign trail, Hollings concentrated on a raft of national issues close to his heart, including early Senate victories to protect the environment, alleviate hunger and push for affordable health care early. As his public service continued, he concentrated on balancing the federal budget, arguing for fair trade policies, promoting economic opportunities and unlocking the telecommunications revolution that swept through the country in the last 20 years.
“Our father, Fritz Hollings, was dedicated to his family, the United States Senate and the people of South Carolina,” said his three surviving children, Michael M. Hollings of Columbia, S.C., Helen Hollings Reardon of Glenwood Springs, Colo., and Ernest F. Hollings III of Kissimmee, Fla. “He was a hero for us and millions of Americans. He was so honored to have served the people of this great state in the South Carolina House of Representatives, as lieutenant governor and governor, and as a member of the United States Senate.
“While we are heartbroken, we hope that in the coming days and weeks as we celebrate our father’s life, all South Carolinian’s will be reminded of his service to our state and nation. Continue reading “U.S. Sen. Ernest F. Hollings (1922-2019)”