Howard C. Bolden

Howard C. Bolden, 73, of Kingsport, went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, January 25, 2011 at his home following an extended illness with his family by his side.

He was born in Sullivan County and was a lifelong resident. He worked at Kingsport Press for 30 years. He was a charter member of Gravelly Baptist Church and had served as a Deacon, Sunday school teacher and held numerous other positions at the church until his failing health prevented him from serving. He loved his church and his family.

He was preceded in death by parents, Mack and Mollie Bolden; sister, Virgie Pierce; and brother John Bolden.

Survivors include wife of 54 years, Mary Ella Bolden of Kingsport; daughter, Tammy Oaks and husband, B.J. of Kingsport; two sons, David Bolden and wife, Jada of Kingsport, Mark Bolden and wife, Lori of Church Hill; eight grandchildren, Eric Hamilton, Sarah Alley and husband, Dustin, Joshua Bolden, Jacob Bolden, Alex Bolden, Jonathon Bolden, Emily Bolden, Ashley Bolden; sister, Mildred Hayter of Thermopolis, WY; brother, Charlie Bolden of Kingsport and several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends from 4-7 pm on Thursday, January 27, 2011 at Gravelly Baptist Church. The service will begin at 7 pm with Pastor David Salley, Rev. David Bolden, Rev. Mark Bolden officiating.

Graveside services will be conducted at 1pm Friday at Oak Hill Memorial Park with Rev. Terry Bennett officiating. Special music will be provided by Terry Bennett and Jada Bolden.

Pallbearers are grandsons and Carlos Dickerson, Harold Derrick and Claude Riner. Honorary pallbearers are Charles Hommell, Richard Burchette, Fred Lane, Don Jones, Larry Barnette, Jack Harber, Kenneth Qualls, Mike Cassell.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Gravelly Baptist Church, 500 Gravely Road, Kingsport, TN. 37660.