Obituary

Pazava Bolden of Pemberton, New Jersey, entered her eternal rest on Wednesday February 7, 2024, after an extended illness. She was the beloved daughter of the late Robert and Madilean Blakeney.

Pazava was born in Pageland, South Carolina. In 1952, she graduated from Kensington High School in Philadelphia, PA where she was an outstanding all-around athlete, and she was voted Most Athletic. After graduation, she was employed as a Practical Nurse.

In November 1954, Pazava married the late Irving Bolden, Jr and from this union, five children were born, Pazava Anyta (deceased), Irving III, Keith Brian (deceased), Pamela Lynne and Polly Ann (deceased).

She was actively involved in her community, serving as Boy Scout and Girl Scout Troop Leader; co-founding the Lake Valley Civic Association. She was the inaugural coach of Pemberton Twp PAL Girls Softball Travel Team, coaching an undefeated season. She pursued her desire to umpire and joined the South Jersey Umpire Assoc. (SJUA) as the first female to umpire baseball games behind the plate. She was also a member of the Pemberton Twp Board of Education for several terms.

A long-time devoted member of Lighthouse Church in Lumberton, NJ, she was active on many boards and committees including teaching Sunday School and serving as a Prayer Warrior.

She is survived by her children: Irving III (Sherry) and Pamela; five grandchildren: Derrick, Jessica, Timaya, Irving, Kennedi; and one great-grandchild, Caleb. She is also survived by her siblings Herman Blakeney, Bervenice Anderson; brother-in-law, Larry Bolden; and a host of other family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her siblings, Noble Jean Shotwell, Robert Blakeney,Jr, Delores Jenkins, Philatha Slatin and Carlissie Blakeney.