Jon’Wesley Eugene Bolden born November 6, 1997, went to be with the Lord on January 18, 2026 at Holly Springs Airport doing what he loved the most. Wesley began his journey in the front yard of his home in Byhalia, MS by playing with his array of cousins and siblings looking for anyway to get in trouble. Playing baseball or football, riding horses and getting into something. He then went to Marshall Academy for his 13 years of schooling He was a multi sport athlete. After graduation he began his college career at Northwest CC where he was apart of Phi Theta Kappa and earned a full ride to Delta State University. When he made it to Cleveland he then met his brothers for life, the men of the Zeta Beta Chapter of Pi Kappa Alpha. His brothers carried him through the last 2 years of college where he earned his degree in Kinesiology. After pursuing his degree, he returned to Marshall Academy as a football coach and PE teacher for his brother, Rusty’s, senior year. This didn’t last long, because his Pike Big Brother Fuller then took him on his first flight to Talladega. It was official, Wesley had been bitten by the aviation bug. He then found his passion for flying. He was soon after that on a fast track program and received his pilot’s license in 1.5 years. Soon after his CFI check ride, he was bound for Starkville. He began working at Circle S Aviation working 7 days a week loving every second. While in Starkville he reconnected with his now Fiancé Erica and fell deeply in love. Just months after these events it was time to move home to begin flying at Nicholas Air. While working there, he brought his pride and joy into the world, Ruby Jean Bolden. After a few years of experience he left Nicholas Air and went into business for himself. Firecrest Aviation was born and he poured his heart and soul into his business. The joy it brought Wesley to spread his passion to people who were just beginning was inexpressible. He truly loved all of his students and wanted each of them to get quality flight instruction. In December he got the job he had his eye on from day 1. Wesley had finally got the opportunity to be a Chief Pilot on a FedEx feeder at Baron Aviation. His family was extremely proud of him and all of his accomplishments and will continue to spread his love and passion for flying aircraft’s safely.
Wesley’s favorite things were to watch all 162 Dodger’s baseball games, attend Ole Miss sporting events of any kind with his dad, go to the movies with his mom, having a good time with his cousins, brothers or buddies. He loved all of these things very much, but his true calling and top love was being the best husband and father. He was a true provider and loved taking care of his family, even if that meant him going without.
He also enjoyed tending to his ducks, working out, reading books of all genres, and watching reality television. He was the definition of a true friend that would do anything for anybody.
His legacy will live on forever.
Blue skies and tailwinds, Wesley.
He leaves his fiancée, Erica Keller; his beloved daughter, Ruby Jean Bolden; his parents, Karen Bolden and Ron Bolden; his grandparents, Peggy Bradshaw, Kenneth Tucker, and Theresa Devore; his brothers, Rusty Bolden and Riley Bolden; and his niece, Della-Rae Bolden. He is also lovingly remembered by numerous uncles, aunts, cousins, extended family members, and many dear friends whose lives were touched by his presence.
He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Dalphus Eugene Bolden, and his cousin, Dustin Stacks.
Visitation will be held from 11 AM until service time. The funeral service will begin at 2:00 PM. Services will be held at the Slayden Baptist Church in Slayden, Mississippi on Tuesday, February 17, 2026. Burial will follow in the Clear Creek Cemetery where a graveside service will also be held.