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1935 - 2026
 Rev. James Franklin Bolen Sr., of Barboursville, WV, was called home to be with Jesus January 9, 2026. He was born on January 6, 1935, in Gallipolis, OH, son of late Elisha Bolen and Jewell Anoka Gustler Bolen. He served in the United States Marine Corps, achieving the rank of Master Gunnery Sergeant before retiring after 30 years of honorable and faithful service. After retiring from the military, James Bolen answered God's calling, preaching God's Word and serving as a full time Minister for the Free Methodist Church for over 42 years. He also was an active member in the Marine Corps League where he was appointed HWW Det 340 Chaplin. While serving as a minister, James Bolen earned a Master’s Degree from Marshall University. He was preceded in death by his first wife Nancy Browning Bolen, second wife Billy Jean Bolen, and several brothers and sisters. He is survived by his wife Beverly Lynn Lambert Bolen of 53 years; two daughters, Betty Workman (Delon) of Lesage, and Jennifer L. Bolen (Austin Kingery) of Ashton; three sons, James F. Bolen Jr. (Suzanne) of Menifee, CA, Gregory E. Bolen of Barboursville, and Chris W. Bolen (Cherri) of Huntington; two sisters, Norma Cignoni of South Point, OH and Myrna Arrowood (Jack) of Huntington; as well as many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Visitation will be Tuesday, January 13, 2026 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Wallace Funeral Home, Barboursville. Funeral Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, January 14, 2026 at Wallace Funeral Home & Chapel in Barboursville. James will be laid to rest following the Funeral Services on that Wednesday in Oaklawn Cemetery. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.timeformemory.com/wallace.
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There are currently 4 condolences.
Donald Scot Grimm
Wednesday January 14, 2026 at
12:08 AM
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To the Bolen Family, I am very sorry for your loss. I've known your family all my life. James did my Dad's funeral 17 years ago in January (Donald Lee Grimm); I am forever grateful to your family and James will be forever missed. Semper Fi Marine!
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Edward and Debbie Farmer
Tuesday January 13, 2026 at
4:57 PM
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Lynn and Family,
We are so sorry for your loss. Please know you ware in our prayers during this difficult time.
May God bless, Edward and Debbie
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Kristopher Legge
Monday January 12, 2026 at
4:09 PM
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Reverend Bolen was an inspiration to me and my family. He was in our lives as a Pastor but also as a family friend. I was honored that he presided over my mothers funeral. He will be missed.
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Brenda Leake
Monday January 12, 2026 at
1:13 PM
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Lynn
So sorry for your loss sending you lots of prayers, We love you .
Brenda Leake and my son Raymond
Leake
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