Joseph “Joe” Garland Bolden, Jr.
Joe Bolden, 88, of Simpsonville, husband of Ursula D. Bolden, passed away at home surrounded by his family on Saturday, March 28, 2026.
Born in New Orleans, LA, Mr. Bolden was the son of the late Joseph Garland Bolden, Sr., and the late Flora Lee Gibson. Joe’s love of New Orleans stayed with him throughout his life. He krewed with Endymion for 14 years and marched with the Downtown Irish Club on many St. Patrick’s Days. He served our country in the U.S. Navy and was a Plank Owner on the USS Manley, DD940 where he was a Machinist Mate.
In addition to his wife, Mr. Bolden is survived by his children, Dolores Sonia (Tony), Jeffrey Stuchel (Lynda), and Gregory Stuchel (Christine); and five grandchildren, Amanda Stuchel, Brian Stuchel, Samantha Ferraro (Joe), Sarah Kusters, and Sean Kusters; and two great-grandchildren, Ryan and Caden Ferraro.
After his discharge from the Navy, Joe pursued his Tooling Engineer career, which brought him to Kennametal, Inc. where he worked in various industries throughout the U.S. and countries in Europe and Asia, retiring in 2000 as Global Marketing Manager,
Joe enjoyed the history of the world and further enjoyed interacting with people from all walks of life to share their mutual knowledge and interests. Joe and Ursula enjoyed traveling, whether in other countries or by full-time RVing for 7 years in all of he Lower 48 states.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to: Bon Secours Hospice by Compassus, 1836 W. Georgia Rd., Simpsonville, SC 29680.
We are so very grateful that Joe was in our lives. What fond memories of the times we spent together at the Manley reunions. We’ll always remember Joe’s big smile and great sense of humor. Our sympathies to the family.
“Death leaves a heartache no one can heal
Love leaves memories no one can steal”
We love you Joe. May you rest in peace.
Joe and Elaine Shovlin
P I P Shipmate great memory from Manley reunions
RIP Joe, Condolences to his family and friends.
George Perasso
There are few people I count as close friends, but Joe was one of them. So many hilarious memories…Joe as Santa Clause, Joe dressed in drag making money for breast cancer research stuffing his bra with cash, Joe serving his famous boiled peanuts and exotic drinks under the oak trees at Legacy. Never forgotten… always cherished. Yvette and Bill
Good by, good friend. Thank you for your help, advice, and good stories.
Robert Kelton
Joe is one in a million.
You had the most kind and friendly face, and so welcoming.
Our friendship and your kind, thoughtful and fun nature will always
be with us. Rest peacefully Joe. ❤️
Pat and Audrey
Hi Ursula
Even after 25 years I still have Joes smiling face in my head.
Always brightened any situation and put things easily into perspective.
Many good memories of times in Korea .
Joe really was one of a kind and the two of you together were a true pleasure to be with.
Rest in Peace my Friend .
Craig
Dear Ursula,
I am so saddened to hear about Joe’s passing. The love you and Joe shared was so evident to anyone that crossed your paths. You will be in my prayers my friend.
Love, Sharon Roope
Dear Ursula,
So sorry to hear this very bad news. Jeanne and I have been thinking of you a lot lately. You and Joe have had a wonderful life and we sure enjoyed your company here in Seattle for a couple of days on your great road trip. I do have some great memories, as well, of our times in Seoul. We wish you good tidings and much love as you move along without your best friend, Joe.
Love,
Charley and Jeanne