Jerald Lavalette Bolen Sr.

Jerald Lavalette Bolen Sr., a devoted family man, dedicated coach and lifelong outdoors man, passed away Wednesday November 11, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, quiet resilience, and deep love for those around him.

Jerald was born April 15, 1945 in Lucedale, Mississippi where he attended Rocky Creek School, his knack for finding the best fishing spots and being the center for his football team. Jerald earned himself a high school nickname, where he was known as, “SNAPPER.” He went on to play football and baseball for Mississippi State University in Starkville, though his athletic career on the field was cut short by injuries. Following his passion for hard work, Jerald began a loyal 32-year career with Union Carbide (formally known as Honeywell UOP), working in molecular sieves and catalysts.

Jerald was a simple man who found his greatest joy in the fundamentals of a good life: farming, fishing and above all, coaching the games of baseball and softball. He spent countless peaceful hours fishing the waters of Presley’s Lake, a cherished spot where he made lifelong memories spending summers with his wife, children, grandchildren, and friends.

Beyond his own children, Jerald made an indelible mark on generations of young athletes. He coached youth baseball, mentoring his son and many other boys who grew to hold a special place in his heart. His coaching journey expanded into softball alongside and for his daughter, guiding numerous girls through their formative years and beaming with pride as he watched them sign college scholarships. Later in life, nothing brought him more happiness than watching his granddaughters play the sport he had grown to love so deeply.

Above all else, Jerald loved his family fiercely and completely.

Jerald is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 56 years, Cheralyn McDonald Bolen, his parents, William Solomon Jr and Iona Voncile Moody Bolen, sister Lillian Annette Bolen Taylor, brothers John Edward Bolen, and Hilton Dowry Bolen.

He is survived by his daughter, Kellie (Daniel) Stacy; son, Jerry Bolen; grandchildren, Morgan Bolen, Ava Stacy; brothers, David (Ramona) Bolen, Wilburn Bolen; sister-in-law, Pat Bolen, as well as many other loving relatives and dear friends.

Funeral services will be held to honor a man who fished every good hole, coached with his whole heart, and loved his family above all else.

Services will be held at Radney’s Funeral Home (Dauphin Street Location; 3155 Dauphin St Rd. Mobile, Al 36606), on Thursday , November 19, 2026 The family will then receive friends and family for visitation at Radney’s Funeral Home from 11:00 a.m. until the service hour at 1:00 p.m.

Interment will be held at Mobile Memorial Gardens; 6040 Three Notch Rd Mobile, AL 36619 Condolences may be offered at www.radneyfuneralhome-mobile.com