Charles Ronald Bolden "Charlie B"

Charles Ronald (“Charlie B”) Bolden and lovingly called “Pops” by his family, peacefully departed this life on Saturday ,July 25, 2026, at the age of 67, in Lubbock, Texas. A Celebration of Life Services will be held Friday, August 7, 2026, at 11:00 am at Rising Star Baptist Church. Interment will follow at the City of Lubbock cemetery under the direction of Griffin Mortuary. Visitation will be held Thursday, August 6, 2026, from 4pm to 6pm at Griffin Mortuary.

Charles was the first born of Five(5) children on September 17, 1958, to Ida Marie Austin and Charles Ray Smith. Charles graduated from Estacado high school in 1977 and spent his life demonstrating the values of hard work, humility, and unconditional love for his family.

Charles was a proud veteran of the United States Army. His dedication and courage earned him The Air Borne Soldier, Expert 1981 Badge (M-16), and the Army Good Conduct Medal. He received an Honorable Discharge, carrying the pride of his military service throughout his life.

Hard work was a defining part of Charles’s character. After his military service, he built a career marked by dedication and commitment. He worked at Fleming Foods for 25 years, Walmart for 17 years, and Meadowbrook Golf Course for 27 years, where he retired after years of faithful service. Those who worked alongside him knew him as dependable, hardworking, and someone who took pride in everything he did.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents, Ida Marie Austin and Charles Ray Smith; his brother, Jerome Lee(Jerry) Bolden; his beloved grandson, J’shun Jerome Davis; and his grandparents, Ernest and Erie Lee Bolden.

He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 48 years, Judy A. Bolden; his daughters, Lativia Bolden, Tawalla Estelle (John), and Chanity Bolden; his sister, Elizabeth Austin; his brothers, Larry Bolden (Teresa)of Abilene, Texas, Thomas Bolden, Anthony Smith(Camela) of Tacoma, Washington, and Brian Smith (Tammy) of Commerce City, Colorado. His Sister-in-Law Myra Bolden

He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Ja’Kayla Knicol Estelle, Jakedric Donte' Bolden, and Quarren D'yon Boyd; his treasured great-grandchildren, Ka'Tya Saige Bolden, Brylee Jae Bolden, Messiah Jace Bolden, Kyng Versace Bolden, and Makenzley Faith Bolden; his niece, Ashley Jefferson(Sebastian) and LaShunda McCullough(Ken) his nephews, Antoine Bolden (Sonia)of Abilene, Texas, and Michael Bolden(Princess) along with a host of cousins, extended family members, lifelong friends, and all whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

Anyone who knew Charles knew that family was at the center of his world. He found his greatest joy in spending time with the people he loved. Whether he was firing up the grill for one of his famous barbecues, preparing a meal in the kitchen, listening to his favorite music, enjoying a day on the golf course, or taking pride in keeping his yard looking its best, Charles made every moment count. His home was a place where laughter was shared, stories were told, and everyone felt welcome.

Charles was a man of wisdom and quiet strength. He did not speak simply to be heard—he spoke with purpose. His words carried weight because they came from a place of experience, sincerity, and love. As his family often says,

“When Charlie speaks, people listen.”

His influence reached far beyond his words. He led by example, teaching the importance of respect, responsibility, hard work, and putting family first. His legacy lives on in the lives of his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and everyone fortunate enough to have known him.

Though Charles has departed from this earthly life, the love he shared, the values he instilled, and the memories he created will remain in the hearts of those who loved him forever.

Above all, Charles treasured his family. Whether offering words of wisdom, sharing a laugh, or simply being present, he made each person feel loved. His greatest joy was watching his family grow, and the love he poured into each generation will continue to live on through them.