James Olden, Jr., “also known as Bullet, Foxy, and Snook”, was born June 10, 1935, to James and Annette Sumpter Olden in Sumter. James transitioned from earth to glory on Sunday, December 25, 2022, at Prisma Health Richland Memorial Hospital, Columbia. He was the youngest of ten children. He was preceded in death by his parents, five brothers, Kaiser, Henry, Marcus, Richard, Willie; four sisters, Daisy, Mattie, Annette, Lou and a granddaughter, Kellye McReynolds. He was formerly married to Helen Gathers Olden. James was educated in the Sumter County public school system. At an early age James accepted Christ as Lord and Savior of his life and joined Wayman Chapel AME Church where he attended on a regular basis until his health declined. He was employed by Eastern Brick and Tile and Shaw Air Force Base. James enjoyed playing checkers, fishing and watching/playing baseball. His favorite team was the LA Dodgers. As a young man, he was known to be a “mean” shortstop for the Saint Michael community baseball team. James is survived by his children, Alvin Olden (Francesca), Maggie Byrd (Frank), Sharon “Dessa” King (Vernon), James “JORE” Olden, Jr. (Beatrice), Charles Michael and his special daughter, Loretta McCauley (Rickey); thirteen grandchildren; one great-grandson, Elias Ingram and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends who will miss him dearly. In accord with the COVID 19 guidelines, the family is requesting no visitation at the home, Funeral services will be held 11:00 a. m., Thursday, December 29, 2022, at Wayman Chapel A. M. E. Church, 160 North Kings Highway, Sumter, with the Rev. Robert L. China, Jr., Pastor, Eulogist. The Remains will be placed in the church at 10:00 a. m. for viewing until time of the services. The procession will leave from the home at 10:30 a. m. Burial will follow in the Wayman Chapel A. M. E. Church Yard Cemetery.
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