BOLDEN, Monroe

The White Mountain Independent, Show Low, Arizona - 04/01/2005 Monroe Bolden died March 26, 2005. Monroe was born June 20, 1914 to James and Hattie Bell Portis Bolden in Quitman, Mississippi. Monroe began school but unlike others, suspended his studies at an early age to help his family manage its farm. Monroe's father came to depend on all his children but especially the leadership of Monroe his oldest. Monroe had one brother Lawrence and a sister Bertha Mae. At age of 14, Monroe left home. He traveled to a neighboring farm to work for the wages necessary to support his family. During the next two years, Monroe traveled to California then settled in Arizona to become a pipe fitter and fire sprinkler specialist for the Southwest Industrial Lumber Mill of McNary. By all accounts Monroe was hardworking, ethical and forthright. His kind words and easy mannerism earned him a trusted place in the minds of his employers and colleagues. Monroe was married in 1936 to Miss Arzell Parker. Together they had three children, Vera T. Lonnie, and Ollie Mae. The couple settled in McNary. Following the passing of Arzell in 1942, Monroe continued to live and work in Arizona but supplemented his income with wartime work in the Naval shipyards at Alameda, California. Later, Monroe met, fell in love with, and was married to the former Mytie Bell Hoyle. Together they had two children: Monroe Jr. (deceased shorty after birth) and Brenda Gail. The couple began their life together in McNary, raising their daughter with the help of an additional son Lonnie Jr. The family was then joined by Anthony (Tony) and Kevin Bolden. In and around the White Mountains of Arizona, Monroe became very well known to all its residents. Retiring from the mill, Monroe spent time hunting, fishing, and enjoying his family and friends. Many had come to recognize his friendly demeanor and quick smile. He became a fixture in the White Mountains and surrounding areas earning a place of fondness in the hearts of all. On behalf of us, his family, his friends, and other loved ones, Monroe will be sorely missed, forever love, and always cherished. He leaves behind to mourn his passing four sons, Lonnie Sr., Lonnie Jr., Anthony, and Kevin; two daughters Ollie Mae, and Brenda Gail; 15 grandchildren, and countless great-grandchildren. Cards may be sent to Bill and Brenda Dawkins and family, 9418 Moss Haven, Dallas, TX 75231. Flowers may be sent to Fletcher's Mortuary, 401 N. 4th Ave., Show Low, AZ 85901. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 2 at the Blooming Grove Baptist Church For further inquiries call Fletcher's Mortuary at 537-2242. Arrangements were handled by Fletcher's Mortuary