Charles Brantley Bolden, Sr. was born May 15, 1935, in Sawyerville, Alabama. He was the youngest of nine children born to the union of Alexander Douglas Bolden, Sr. and Hazel Brantley Bolden. Charles joined Springfield Baptist Church at an early age, later became a member of Salem Baptist Church in Greensboro, Alabama; with his final church home of sixty-one years being New Light Missionary Baptist Church in Cleveland, Ohio.

Charles attended Hale County Training School in Greensboro and graduated in 1953. He later met and married Aretha Pickens. Three children were born to this 63-year union: Yvette Denise, Charles Brantley II, and Yolanda Denise. In 1965, he moved to Cleveland with the support of his beloved brother in spirit, Ernest Somerville (Ruth), and their family.

After 25 years of dedicated service, marked by perfect attendance, he retired from Ford Motor Company in Brookpark, Ohio in 1994. Following his retirement, he devoted himself to a peaceful and fulfilling life, cultivating the land and caring for the property that held deep meaning to his family. He treasured the simple joys of being surrounded by the warmth of home and family.

He embodied the true definition of being an exemplary man; numerous conversations providing direction, advice, instilling wisdom, and encouraging dreams. A true supporter of his children and grandchildren by being a staple in their lives, whether sitting in his recliner or being present at milestone events.

Affectionately known as “Pops”, Charles has been a role model for countless young people in the community as well. He has provided financial guidance heavily hinged on saving and investing, instilled strong work-ethic, and promoted education.

Charles leaves to cherish his memory a loving wife, Aretha; one son, Charles Brantley II (Teri), of Cleveland; two daughters, Yvette Denise (Johann), of Cleveland and Yolanda Denise, of Atlanta; five granddaughters, Imani Lian, Iesha Nicole, and Tori Rae all of Cleveland; Nia Lenee and Kendall Symone, both of Atlanta; two grandsons, Chandler Scott, of Atlanta and Charles Brantley III, of Cleveland; four great grandchildren, Lynox Tae Nicole, Kaizer Pilar, Caiden Lee, Iva Falana, all of Cleveland; two brothers-in-law, Robert Pickens Sr, of Greensboro, Howard Pickens (Wanda), of Cleveland, and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Hazel and Alexander Bolden Sr.; siblings, Alexander Bolden Jr. (Gustavia), Louise Hobson (Robert), Rudolph Bolden (Ann), Lottie Nabors (Edgar), Cota Hobson (Eugene), Ethel Rhone (Simon), Florence Pickens (Edward and Henry), and Benard Bolden (Ida).