Jim Golden

Jimmy “Jim” Atwood Golden, age 90, of Cedar Creek, Texas, passed away peacefully on October 25, 2025. Born on March 20, 1935, in Rome, Georgia, to Preston Atwood Golden and Lillie Mae Hall, Jim lived a life defined by dedication, kindness, and unwavering commitment to his family, friends, and country.

Jim shared 59 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Bobbie Jean Golden, who preceded him in death on September 3, 2012, at age 76. Together, they raised a family and built a legacy of love and support that spans generations. Jim was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and uncle, always ready to lend a helping hand or share a quiet moment with those he cherished.

A proud veteran, Jim served as a Master Sergeant in the U.S. Air Force from 1954 to 1980. His service was marked by distinction, earning him many commendations, including the Air Force Commendation Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, and Vietnam Gallantry Cross. His skill and dedication kept aircraft aloft and his fellow service men and women safe during a remarkable 26-year career.

In his personal life, Jim found joy in simple pleasures: casting a line while fishing with family and friends, riding his motorcycle along open roads with his brother, and spending time with family and friends over a game of washers. Known for his hardworking nature and generous spirit, he was a steady presence, always there to support those in need with quiet strength and kindness.

Jim is survived by:

• Son Jimmy D. Golden
• Daughters Teresa Livingston (Mark) and Carolyn Vallejo
• Grandchildren James Livingston (Jeanie), Ginger Jones (Jack), Casondra Dailey (Greg), Justin Vallejo (Sam), Alfred “Matthew” Vallejo (Jana), Ryan Golden, Robert “Andrew” Golden (Allison), Marielle Hughes (Rhys), and Thomas Hughes
• Great-Grandchildren Leslie Livingston, James Livingston Jr., Nathan Jones, Troy Dailey, Gary Dailey, Jim Ritchie, Kooper Vallejo, Stetson Vallejo, Emersyn Vallejo, Jaxon Castro, Brodie Castro, Gabe Jones and Jass Jones.
• Brother Dean Golden (Janice)
• Sister Freda Peterson
• Nieces & Nephews Cheryl Vanbuskirk, Pennie Job, Robin Riley, Shannon Riley, Marvin Morris, John Peterson, Crystal Hartman, and fourteen great-nieces and great-nephews

He was preceded in death by his wife, Bobbie Jean Golden; his parents, Preston Atwood Golden and Lillie Mae Hall; his sister, Matha Riley; and nephew, Bill Riley.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 30, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Marrs-Jones-Newby Funeral Home in Bastrop, Texas.

Funeral Service will follow on Friday, October 31, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the same location.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to one of the following veterans’ support organizations, in honor of Jim’s 26 years of faithful service and his lifelong commitment to his fellow veterans:

• Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW): Supporting combat veterans with benefits assistance, legislative advocacy, and community programs. 
• The American Legion: Advocating for all veterans with services like suicide prevention, scholarships, and community outreach. 
• Disabled American Veterans (DAV): Providing lifetime support for disabled veterans and their families through benefits claims, transportation, and more. 
• Wounded Warrior Project (WWP): Offering programs for injured veterans, including mental health, career counseling, and peer support. 

Jim’s life was a testament to service, family, and quiet kindness. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered by all who knew him.