Luther Richard "Rickie" Bolen, III, born on March 18, 1947, passed away on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at the Lexington Medical Center. He was a devoted father, a proud grandfather, and a loyal friend who touched the hearts of everyone he encountered. Rickie was a man whose personality shone bright; he truly never met a stranger, making connections effortlessly and spreading warmth and kindness wherever he went.

Rickie's journey began in Orangeburg, where he grew up playing baseball, nurturing his love for sports that would extend into adulthood. His passion for competition led him to play fast-pitch softball for many years, forming lifelong friendships along the way that enriched his life. He was a 1965 graduate of Orangeburg High School and continued his pursuit of knowledge at Anderson Jr. College and Midlands Technical College, forever valuing education and growth.

A veteran of the United States Army National Guard, Rickie’s dedication to service exemplified his commitment not only to his country but also to the community he loved. After serving, he brought his work ethic and dedication to the Farm Bureau Insurance Company, where he found his professional home from December of 1988 until December of 2010.

Rickie was a faithful long-time member of First Baptist Church in Orangeburg, where he fostered a resilient spirit of faith and service that inspired many. His beloved church community became an extension of his family, offering support and camaraderie throughout his life.

Family meant everything to Rickie. He took immense pride in being a father to Luther Richard "Rick" Bolen, IV, and a doting grandfather to Jacob R. Bolen and Anna Grace Bolen. His love for his family was evident in the active role he played in their lives, always eager to share moments of joy, pride, and affection. The bonds he forged with his grandchildren provided him with some of his proudest accomplishments, as he cherished each memory created together.

Rickie's fondness for the outdoors was apparent in his leisure activities. He loved working on his Papa's farm and spent many delightful hours fishing with him on the Edisto River. His enthusiasm for bird hunting and deer hunting further demonstrated his connection to nature and the simple joys of life.

Although he leaves behind his devoted son, cherished grandchildren, and beloved brother, Ronald W. "Ronnie" Bolen, Rickie joins his parents, L. Richard Bolen, Jr. and Carolyn Fogle "Peggy" Bolen, and his maternal grandparents, John W. Fogle, Sr. and Florence G. Fogle, and his paternal grandparents, Luther R. Bolen, Sr. and Rose M. Bolen, in eternal rest.

A memorial service to honor and celebrate Rickie's life will be held at First Baptist Church in Orangeburg on February 25, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Rev. Ryan Tucker will be officiating.  The family will greet friends immediately following the service.  Family and friends are invited to gather at this comforting place to share stories, celebrate a life well-lived, and keep his spirit alive in the hearts of those he loved.

Memorials may be made in Rickie's memory to First Baptist Church at 1240 Russell Street, Orangeburg, S.C. 29115.

Luther Richard "Rickie" Bolen, III, will forever be remembered for his compassionate nature, zest for life, and the love he bestowed upon his family and friends. His legacy, intertwined with laughter and fond memories, will continue to resonate in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known him.