Frank Branch, the first quarterback to ever play for Holden at PRCC back in 1948, remembers the late James Clifton (J.C.) 
Stewart Jr. as a mentally and physically tough football player who often played through injuries.
"J.C. played offense and defense as an end," said Branch. "He was what they call a tight end today, great pass receiver. I remember he caught the winning pass when we beat Lamar 21-20 in 1949 in the Memorial Bowl in Jackson."
Stewart, who died of cancer in 1990, played football and basketball at Pearl River from 1948-49. He not only was selected an All-State end in 1949, Holden’s first state championship team, but he was also selected most athletic at PRCC.
"I can’t think of anybody more deserving," said Branch. "He had a big heart and was a heck of a competitor. I remember the Co-Lin game our sophomore season. They tied the game up late 14-14. He caught the winning touchdown pass and we won 20-14."