Pauline Bolen, of Magoffin County, Kentucky, passed away on the morning of Tuesday, April 7, 2026, reuniting in Heaven with her beloved husband, John Grover Bolen, her daughter, Carolyn Bolen, her parents, Ray and Ivory (Howard) Gamble, and her siblings Viola Hunley, Lovella Howard, Shirley Hall, Emma Jean Gamble, Rosetta Risner Allen, Mary Magdalene Gamble, Elizabeth Gamble, Roy Lee Gamble, and Joseph Gamble.
She was born on May 24, 1943, in Magoffin County, Kentucky. She belonged to the Head of Coon Creek Church. Pauline lived a life rooted in faith, family, and hard work. A devoted farm wife and homemaker, she was known for her strength, resilience, and ability to outwork just about anyone. She was a talented quilter and seamstress, often making purses and other handmade items.
Pauline showed her love through cooking for those around her. Every meal she prepared felt like a Thanksgiving dinner—full, warm, and made to bring people together. She was known for her country cooking, providing the kind of soul and comfort food that made a house feel like home. Above all, she was a Christian whose life reflected endurance, faith, and deep care for her family.
She is survived by her children, in order of age: Cora Rose Bolen of Magoffin County, Kentucky; Jennifer Bates (husband Tim Bates) of Greenup County, Kentucky; Tammy Caudill (husband Paul Caudill) of Magoffin County, Kentucky; Jeff Bolen (wife Becky Bolen) of Magoffin County, Kentucky; and John Edda Hurd (husband Mike Hurd) of Magoffin County.
She is also survived by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren:
From Jennifer Bates: granddaughter Pauletta (PJ) Bates.
From Tammy Caudill: granddaughter Tambriell Marino (husband Dan Marino) and great-granddaughter Ellenor Marino; granddaughter Makinna Caudill.
From Jeff Bolen: granddaughter Morgan Howard (husband Seth Howard) and great-grandchildren Dawson and Laynie Howard; granddaughter Chasity Hensley (husband BJ Hensley) and great-grandchildren Aubree, Tinlee, and Willow Hensley; and grandson Jeffery Blake Bolen (wife Taylor Bolen) and great-granddaughters Harper and Korbyn Bolen.
From John Edda Hurd: grandson Dalton Hurd (wife Angela Hurd) with a great-grandchild on the way; grandson Braxton Hurd (wife Rhylee Hurd) and great-grandson Mason Hurd; and granddaughter Ivory Hurd.
She is also survived by her siblings Nettie Gamble, Rita Fay Gamble, Benita Gay Caudill, Morris Gamble, and Johnny Gamble.
Pauline’s life was one of perseverance, faith, and devotion. She will be remembered for her strong spirit, her caring hands, and the way she made sure those around her were fed, cared for, and loved.
The family would like to thank those who provided care, support, and kindness during her final years.
She will be remembered in the words of Scripture: “I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in.” — Matthew 25:35
“And let us not grow weary in doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” — Galatians 6:9
She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
Funeral services will be conducted at 1:00 P.M. Friday, April 10, 2026 at the Magoffin County Funeral Home Chapel with Greg Hall and Gary Bolen officiating. Burial will follow in the Bolen Cemetery at Buffalo Road in Salyersville, Kentucky. Friends may visit the funeral home Thursday, April 09, 2026 from 5:00 P.M. till 9:00 P.M. and any time prior to funeral services.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Magoffin County Funeral Home.
www.magoffincountyfuneralhome.com
