Alice Marie Bolton

In the early morning hours of Wednesday, November 25th, Alice Marie Bolton made her final journey. As she often said, "I am ready to go; however, I want to take the last train running."

Marie was born on October 14, 1925 to Clifford C. and Maggie Alice Pettigrew Martin of the Gilchrist Community in McNairy County, Tennessee. After the passing of her mother when Marie was 5, Clifford married Ruby Hawkins. To this union Marie's only sibling was born, Betty Ann Martin. By the age of 11 Marie had suffered the loss of her father as well as her baby sister, who died at the age of 3.

Following the death of her father, Marie was raised by her maternal grandparents, Grover and Pauline Pettigrew, along with her mother's surviving siblings, Lawrence and Kathleen Pettigrew. Although she grew up during The Great Depression, she was never without love or food. Her grandparents were known in the community for their generosity toward family, neighbors and friends, sharing anything they had.

After graduation from Adamsville High School Marie worked for Brown Shoe Company in Selmer. She later met and married the love of her life, Homer "Leo" Bolton of Bethel Springs. They moved to Selmer and opened Bolton Furniture and Appliance. Their union was blessed with two daughters, Vickie Marie and Molly Kay Bolton. When Vickie was 6 and Molly was 4 Marie suffered another great loss-her husband died on March 31, 1967 at the age of 46.

After selling Bolton Furniture and Appliance Marie was hired by the McNairy County Board of Education as Roseanne Cain's aide in the reading program at Selmer Elementary. She also worked as a substitute teacher and was eventually hired as the Receiving Clerk in the book room for McNairy County. She loved her career with the McNairy County Board of Education and retired at age 90 after 46 years of service. This job was a blessing to her and her daughters because it allowed her to be a "hands-on" mother, sharing schedules with her girls and never having to leave them. With the heart of a teacher, Marie encouraged her daughters to attend college and sent them. Both graduated with B.S. Degrees in Education and taught in the McNairy County School System.

In a few short years she gained another job title, "Grandmother Extraordinaire" to Jana Kay Hurst, Todd Bolton Gean, Alison Grace Gean, and Lora Gannon Gean, who preceded Marie in death on November 28, 2000. Lovingly known as "Nana," she wanted to be involved in all her grandchildren's activities, and she was-including babysitting, educational field trips, movies, cooking, school projects, and serving as "Advisor." From this job she never retired.

After retiring from the Board of Education, Marie continually stayed "On The Road Again" visiting neighbors and friends and participating in anything her girls and grandchildren were doing. She also enjoyed baking and going shopping with some of her favorite companions-Dott Ann Gean, Alene Pettigrew and Lois Templeton.

Marie was a faithful and active member of First Presbyterian Church in Selmer. She loved her church and church family dearly and found great joy in serving there alongside her "extended family." She served as an Elder and taught the Ladies' Sunday School Class, various youth classes, and participated in the Ladies' Bible Class on Wednesday nights. Marie was a great organizer and servant who led by example. She oversaw the renovation of the church kitchen and participated in organizing the Chrismon Tree program for many years.

No one ever had to wonder what Marie was thinking because she was quick to speak her mind. One thing she did not have to tell others about was her faith in God-it was evident in the way she lived. Marie's faith always remained strong. In times of loss, hurt or anger she always chose to go to the Lord in prayer for help when facing the difficult trials of life. She would often say "Whatever it is, this too shall pass. Whether you are on the mountain top or in the valley, it will not last."

She is survived by two daughters, Vickie (Bolton) Hurst and husband Tim of Bethel Springs, TN and Molly (Bolton) Gean and husband Todd of Adamsville, TN; three grandchildren: Jana K. Hurst of Crown Point, IN, Todd Bolton Gean and wife Hilary of Adamsville, TN, and Alison Grace Gean of Nashville, TN; a great-grandchild, Nathan Proto; and many extended family and friends.

The family wishes to say a special thank you to her dedicated caregivers: Teresa Brown, Debra Heath, Bobbie Sue Hardin, Wanda Cooksey, and Mallory Erwin.

Memorials may be made to Loaves and Fishes.

Visitors are requested to wear masks and observe social distancing guidelines when attending the visitation or service.