Obituary: Emmett L. Bolyard
Emmett L. Bolyard, a dedicated firefighter and cherished family member, passed away on February 9, 2026, in Jackson, Tennessee. He was born on February 1, 1939, in Columbiana, Ohio, and made Tennessee his home in 1963.
Emmett’s career spanned decades, highlighted by his service as a firefighter, culminating in his roles as captain and assistant chief of the Bolivar Fire Department. He provided unwavering service from 1964 until 2001, after which he continued to serve as a volunteer firefighter until his passing. His dedication to the community was recognized when he received the Firefighter of the Year Award twice, first in 1982 and again in 2002. Emmett was also noted for being the first paid firefighter within Bolivar. In addition to his firefighting career, he contributed to local public service as a reserve school bus driver for Hardeman County schools and was involved in running the ambulance service in Hardeman County. Before these endeavors, he worked at Jervis Corporation.
A veteran of the U.S. Army Reserves, Emmett exemplified commitment, courage, and a profound sense of duty throughout his life. Outside of his professional obligations, he cherished time spent with his grandchildren, always supporting them in their sporting endeavors. Emmett was also an active member of Bolivar’s First Methodist Church, where he served as custodian for over 15 years and gained the affection and respect of his community.
Emmett enjoyed the simple pleasures in life, including watching “The Young and the Restless,” as he balanced work with moments of joy with his family. He was deeply loved and will be missed by his family and friends.
He is survived by his two sons, William “B.J.” Bolyard (Becky) of Bolivar and Craig Bolyard of Smyrna, along with a host of grandchildren: Shelby Bolyard Parker, Alyssa, Lindy and Kadea Bolyard, Abby Bolyard Ruble, and Cody and Austin Bolyard, Tanner, Tucker and Abbie Parker. He also leaves 6 great grandchildren, Jackson Jewell, Emma Lee and Nash Allen Bolyard, Harper Grace Ruble, Maverick Ross, and MacKenzie Blake Parker.
Emmett was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Patricia Bowers Bolyard; his daughter, Linda Bolyard Evans; his father, Truman P. Bolyard; his mother, Thelma Grace Kurtz Bolyard; and his daughter-in-law, Sherelle Bolyard.
A memorial service was held at 11:00 AM on Sat., February 14, 2026, at Bolivar First Methodist Church. Shackelford Funeral Directors of Bolivar were in charge ofprofessional arrangements.
Emmett L. Bolyard’s legacy as a dedicated public servant, loving family man, and committed community member will be remembered fondly by all who knew him. Memorial contributions in his name may be sent to the Bolivar Volunteer Fire Fund, 211 N. Washington St., Bolivar, TN 38008.
Courtesy of Shackelford Funeral Directors, Bolivar, Tennessee.
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