Laura Pearl Bolden, 97, a long-time resident of Akron, OH went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, April 3, 2019, after a long and fruitful life.

Laura was born in Heflin, Alabama to the late James and Annie Rhoden. She was the youngest of 4 children; 3 brothers, David, Daniel and James, Jr. preceded in death.

Laura graduated from Calhoun County Training School in Dobson City, AL in 1941.  She also attended beauty school.

Laura moved north to Akron in the mid-1940s where she met the love of her life, James (Jim) Bolden.  The two were joined in wedded bliss on June 25, 1949, and were blessed with two children, Denise Ann, and James Michael.  Laura was a role model as a dutiful wife, loving mother & mother-figure and a faithful friend to so many.

Laura became a member of Bethel Baptist Church (now Greater Bethel Baptist Church) in the 1950s.  She was a steadfast member, participating in Senior Mission, Deaconess Board, Circle Ruth and as a Sunday school teacher.  She was always willing to lend a helping hand where needed due to her charitable nature.  She financially donated to many charities such as Save the Children, Jerry Lewis’ Telethon, March of Dimes and St. Jude’s Hospital.  Laura triumphantly completed a theology course given by the late Rev. William K. Hawkins, and the family was and continues to be so very proud of her.  She raised her children in the church, and most would say the did a pretty good job!!

Laura was a great homemaker and truly enjoyed cooking and entertaining.  Precious memories abound of wonderful gatherings with family and a diverse group of friends.  She also loved to travel…although she never learned to drive.  She spent many years as a domestic worker and positively touched the lives of so many people who still remember, love and appreciate her.  Much like her beloved husband, Jim, Laura imparted so much wisdom, kindness, joy, and love that she will always be with us. Our spirits soar knowing that their two spirits are together again.

Laura is survived by daughter, Denise Simmons-Bolden of Akron, OH; son, James (Jan) Bolden of Evanston, IL; grandchildren, Clinton Bolden of Massillon, OH, Michael and Alexa Bolden of Chicago, IL; great-grandchildren, Devon Wyant of Akron, OH, Kristen Nicole, Adam and Omar Hamad of Clinton, OH; great-great-grandchild, Aliya Worth of Akron, OH; nieces, Lillie (Zeke) Williams of Akron, OH, Marie Rhoden of Heflin, AL; nephews, James (Susan) Wilson of Plano, TX, Paul (Diane) Bolden of Akron, OH; and a blessed host of other relatives and dear friends.