James Odene Walden

James Odene Walden, 90, of West Monroe, LA, passed away Friday, November 5, 2021, at St. Francis Hospital in Monroe, LA. He was born on June 8, 1931, to Lloyd and Beulah Walden in Artesia, Mississippi. James grew up on his father’s 100-acre farm in the community of Cairo near Booneville, Mississippi. He was a jet aircraft mechanic who gladly served his country. He retired from the Air Force and Civil Service and was later employed by DynCorp & Northrop Grumman as well. James enjoyed the outdoors and was an avid gardener.

A graveside service will be held on Monday, November 22, 2021, at Northeast Louisiana Veteran’s Cemetery in Rayville, LA, at 1:00 P.M. with Tony Diaz and Dr. Mark Fenn officiating.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd and Beulah Walden; brothers, Mogene, Roland, and Roy Lee; and sister, Mary Effie.

James is survived by his wife of 66 years, Pernie Ivie Davis Walden; two daughters, Vickie Boleware of Euless, Texas, and Pattie Diaz (Tony) of West Monroe, LA; his grandchildren, Richard Boleware (Dr. Becca), Jonathan Boleware (Alison), Dr. Charlton Diaz, and Hannah Diaz Samsel (Dr. Jonmichael); his great grandchildren, Tristan Boleware, James Boleware, Liam Boleware, Donna Boleware, Everly Samsel and a much-loved foster child.

Our father was known as a kind and peaceful gentleman. His legacy is a consistent life of honest work, simple pleasures, and thankfulness for family.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Operation Heal Our Patriots, a ministry of Samaritan’s Purse.

Online Registry/Condolences: www.mulhearnfuneralhome.com