Johnnie Marion Bolin

Johnnie Marion Bolin, 82, of Crossett, passed away on Wednesday, June 25, 2025. He was born on March 18, 1943, and was a lifelong resident of Ashley County, a proud graduate of Crossett High School, and an active member of Cloverdale Assembly of God Church.

Johnnie worked for Georgia-Pacific for over 26 years, while also serving as president of Local 369, and later spent five years with Albany International. A dedicated public servant, he was a former Ashley County Judge and served two terms in the Arkansas House of Representatives, where he became Chairman of the House Transportation Committee during his second term. Following his time in office, he continued his passion for infrastructure and advocacy as Executive Director of the Arkansas Good Roads Foundation.

Johnnie’s influence extended well beyond his professional and political life. He served as a former Little League president, was a dedicated member of the Crossett Riding Club and Carter Deer Camp and held a treasured spot among Andy’s morning coffee crew—where he helped tackle local and global issues, one sip at a time.

He was known for his deep passion for the Arkansas Razorbacks, his joy in working in the yard, hunting, and fishing, and his unwavering commitment to honoring veterans—never missing the annual Veterans Memorial at the Ashley County Courthouse.

Johnnie was a man of strong convictions and had a tender heart. He gave freely of his time and was deeply involved in countless causes across South Arkansas. With a genuine love for people and a gift for making everyone feel like a friend, he was never a stranger to anyone. His greatest joy, however, was being surrounded by his grandchildren, who were the light of his life.

Above all else, Johnnie loved the Lord with unwavering faith—he worshipped boldly, praised loudly, and never held back in his devotion. His family came next, and to him, that was everything. He will be remembered for his steadfast faith, servant’s heart, and the joyful, wholehearted way he lived and gave of himself.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Doc and Irma Sawyer Bolin; his first wife, Betty Barnett Bolin; one brother, Dale Bolin; his in-laws, Willie Mac and Martiel Barnett; and three brothers-in-law,  Karman Storset, Bobby Ray, and Bruce Barnett.

He leaves behind his loving wife, Linda Jordan Bolin of Crossett; one daughter, Lisa Bolin McPherson of Austin, TX; and one son, John Stephen Bolin (Rhonda) of Hot Springs, AR; along with three siblings, Jerry Bolin (Virginia) of Morrilton, AR, and Judy Bolin Ray, and Kitty Bolin Storset both of Crossett; sister-in-law, Ann Bolin also of Crossett; three grandchildren, John Marshall McPherson (Taylor), Carter Bristow McPherson, and Logan James Sharp; two step great-grandchildren, Gavin and Austin Measel; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 2:30 p.m., Saturday, June 28th, at the Cloverdale Assembly of God Church, 132 Ashley Road 15, in Crossett, with Pastor David Williams and D.J. Bussell officiating, followed by interment at Carter Cemetery under the direction of Medders Funeral Home.  Pallbearers are Tom Baldwin, Jerry and Brad Barnett, Marshall and Carter McPherson, and Logan Sharp.  Honorary pallbearers are D.B. Hill, III, Ronald Rice, Dale Rice, Phillip Sharp, Steven Sharp, Michael Young, and Rex Grant.

Visitation will be from 12:30-2:30 p.m., Saturday, at the church, prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, his family strongly encourages donations be made to the Carter Cemetery in his memory. (address listed below)

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