obit-thumbnail gallery-image

Norman Bolds

September 6, 1929 - January 18, 2016
Visitation
Thompson, Hall & Jordan Funeral Home
11400 Winton Rd
Forest Park, OH 45240
513-742-3600 | Map
Tuesday 1/26, 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Service
Thompson, Hall & Jordan Funeral Home
11400 Winton Rd
Forest Park, OH 45240
513-742-3600 | Map
Tuesday 1/26, 11:00 am
Cemetery
Spring Grove Cemetery
4521 Spring Grove Ave
Cincinnati, OH 45232

Norman Benjamin Bolds, Jr. was born September 6, 1929 in Lockland, Ohio to the late Norman and Anna (Graham) Bolds. He was the oldest of five children: Elmer, Carlton, Roland and Ann. He was baptized at an early age at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Lockland, Ohio. Norman established a strong legacy of academic excellenceContinue Reading

Plant a tree in memory of Norman
An environmentally friendly option.
Emma Mitchell left a message on October 11, 2016:
Emma J. Smith-Mitchell Class of 1981 ( I remember Mr. Bolds tall in statue a representation at all times of RESPECT A GREAT PRINCIPAL)
Cynthia M left a message on February 13, 2016:
Heartfelt condolence to Mr.Bold's family. He will be missed. Jehovah God has the yearning to restore life to those who have died. Job 14:14, 15 Cynthia McCullars Class 75
Yolonda Yarbrough Craig left a message on February 8, 2016:
Yolonda Yarbrough Craig class of 1981
The Orr Family- William, Renee, Bill and Jennifer left a message on January 25, 2016:
The Orr Family- William, Renee, Bill and Jennifer purchased the Beautiful in Blue for the family of Norman Bolds.
Renee Bessick left a message on January 25, 2016:
In July, 2013,Dad(William Orr), Mr. Reginald Head, and Mr. Pete gathered together to celebrate William's 85th birthday. He wanted to spend the day with his three best friends.The celebration was at the Sterling House in Springdale, in a room large for the three friends to gather together and just share fond memories. We ate, and laughed, and talked about the good old days, from their early time on Stewart Avenue to Wayne High School friends, and some of their gatherings as they got older . They shared what their children were doing, and even talked to William's son on the phone viaFaceTime..And then, there were periods of silence when they were just glad to be sitting, and cat-napping together in the same room. We took pictures and put them into frames, and each man took one home. Mr. Elmer could not come that day, but Mr. Pete said he would be sure to tell him what a good time he missed. They were so happy just to be together again. It was one of the last times the friends could all move around together. It was a joy to watch, and my siblings and I were grateful for the opportunity to share some time with your Dad.We are sorry are sorry for your loss. The children of William Orr-Renee, Bill Jr. , and Jennifer
condolence-advertisement Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Patricia Varnell left a message on January 25, 2016:
May The Lord bless you with wisdom, understanding and healing, to help you through this time of bereaving the loss of your loving father. As a child of God, you know He does not make mistakes. Please know my prayers are with you and your family throughout the days, weeks and months ahead. Patricia A.P. Varnell Cascade United Methodist Church
Jon Dooley left a message on January 25, 2016:
just great help me be who i am today.want the family to know he will be missed . i live in texas now but he always had time to give a word .real firm sometime,but with love and caring.also had him for a neighbor growing up in kennedy hieghts R.I.P Mr.Norman Bolds
Gracie White left a message on January 25, 2016:
To Norma and Family, "In God's presence, there is fullness of joy!" Norman has received his crown and he is resting happily in God's presence. I an sending a beautiful comforting thought to you because you were blessed to have such a strong, wonderful father and friend in your lives for a long time. Despite how you may feel now, as time passes, memories of Norman Bolds will sustain you. Trust God and find new Hope in Him. He is taking care of you--even now. Gracie White Cascade UMC - Atlanta, GA
Dereka Brown left a message on January 25, 2016:
I will miss my football Dad!! Every time I called he would ask how was my family. He raved about his girls as well. I know you are in a better place and so glad our paths crossed. Thank you God. Dereka Brown, Cascade UMC
David Roth left a message on January 25, 2016:
Class of 1980
Daiquiri, Mark, and Peyton left a message on January 25, 2016:
Daiquiri, Mark, and Peyton purchased the Sweetest Sunrise Bouquet for the family of Norman Bolds.
Bertie Greer and Family left a message on January 25, 2016:
Bertie Greer and Family purchased the Simply Elegant Spathiphyllum for the family of Norman Bolds.
Denise Johnson left a message on January 24, 2016:
I only was sent to his office at Woodward High school once. He said " Do not show up here again.... Now go to class" That was it and I never did. He was an awesome man.
Dave Weller left a message on January 24, 2016:
Sorry to hear of his passing, I remember his kindnessfrom y time at woodward
Betrenia Crawford Bailey left a message on January 24, 2016:
Lit a candle in memory of Norman Bolds
Bertie Greer left a message on January 24, 2016:
My thoughts and prayers are with the family. I pray you find peace during Norman's going home service.
Sheila Johnson left a message on January 23, 2016:
Mr.Norman bolds, you will missed now rest in heaven. You y were the best teacher and principal that there was that Woodward had . from: sheila (young) johnson
Sharon Patterson left a message on January 23, 2016:
I remember Mr.Bolds' teaching his staff". Never call the police into a situation in Woodward. WE RELINQUISH CONTROL TO THE POLICE DEPARTMENT. THESE ARE OUR CHILDRENN-THIS IS OUR JOB...... I still vividly remember that teenage students from Kennedy Heights and North Avondale were physically gathering in the MAIN HALL to challenge each other-Mr. Bolds was away from the building. I also remember the assistant principal who called the police. Mr. Bolds pronouncement molded me for the rest of my career as an educator. I remember Mr. Bolds quite a lot these days; we need more like him. I am praying for mercy seats for all family and friends. Sharon B Patterson
Kris Stephens left a message on January 23, 2016:
I had the pleasure of working in the Woodward office during my senior year of 1982. Mr Bolds was not only a mentor but someone who really cared about us. He made it a point to prepare us not only for college but also life beyond. He will be missed by many but his lessons will live on with us forever. Prayers to you and your family during this time of sorrow.
Judith Rhodes left a message on January 23, 2016:
Mr.Bolds was a good principle and man. Kept me in line and I turned well. R.I.P.
condolence-advertisement Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Jim Clingman left a message on January 23, 2016:
I had heard about "Mr. Bolds" from his former students, how his reputation caused them to tremble at the thought of having to face his ire if they got in trouble, as well as how much he loved his students and made every effort to mold them into the best they could be. Depending on the situation, he could be a raging lion or a cuddly teddy bear. Yes, his reputation in education circles definitely preceded him. One thing I can confirm is that Norm Bolds did care; he was dedicated not only to helping students but helping people in general. He jumped right in to help me in my quest to start the African American Chamber of Commerce and later in my effort to establish Cincinnati's Entrepreneurship High School. The support coming from this Cincinnati educational giant was just as important as the advice and guidance he gave me. Whenever I was down about trying to bring my vision to fruition Norm seemed to always show up or call--at just the right time to champion my work and give me the booster shot I needed to go keep going forward. He was one of Cincinnati's finest, who shared his reservoir of knowledge and experience with grace and humility. Miss you, Norm. Jim Clingman
Henry Merrick left a message on January 23, 2016:
He was a great role model for young men at Woodward high school
Bishop Bobby Hilton left a message on January 23, 2016:
I have precious memories of one of my high school principals. May the LORD bless and comfort the family of this great man. Bishop Bobby Hilton
Victoria Gentry Crook left a message on January 22, 2016:
Lit a candle in memory of Norman Bolds
Tara Mitchell left a message on January 22, 2016:
Lit a candle in memory of Norman Bolds
Steven Pickel left a message on January 22, 2016:
Steven Pickel, C/O 1983, R.I.P - you are missed
ShaRon Johnson Israel left a message on January 22, 2016:
Reat in peace Mr.Bolds
Sharon Davis left a message on January 22, 2016:
Sharon Davis
Rudy McClinon left a message on January 22, 2016:
Norma, I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of your father. As you know he was very instrumental in my development as a man and educator. He has improved the lives of so many people and have left a Legacy like no other. My heart goes out to you and the family. Rudy McClinon and Family
Ron Twitty left a message on January 22, 2016:
Mr Bolds and other Educators of the same mold taught us how to be real men from the Pride of Samuel Sch Golden Eagles through the halls of Woodward High School....I salute the privilege of being taught and mentored by the likes of Mr. Bolds
Rachelle Thomas left a message on January 22, 2016:
Lit a candle in memory of Norman Bolds
Rachel Rousseau and Family left a message on January 22, 2016:
Our Condolences , Prayers , and Comforting Hugs Sent To Mr Bolds Family Members He Will be Truly Missed and Know He Was Truly Loved at WoodWard High School
Paulette Delaine left a message on January 22, 2016:
Lit a candle in memory of Norman Bolds
Pam Bell left a message on January 22, 2016:
Mr. Bolds was my principal during my school year at Woodward from 1978 - 1981. He was the greatest principal students could have.
Pam Bell left a message on January 22, 2016:
Lit a candle in memory of Norman Bolds
Norma Smith left a message on January 22, 2016:
Mr. Bolds was a wonderful Principle. I would see him every day coming in grocery store (Kroger) getting grocery for him self and his wife. He will be missed. May God bless and keep his family strong until we meet again.
Michelle Williams left a message on January 22, 2016:
Lit a candle in memory of Norman Bolds
Linda Nixon left a message on January 22, 2016:
Class of 1969 at Woodward High School. Mr. Bolds was the coolest principal but handled us with a strong hand and taught us to be young ladies and men. I will forever remember him during my days at Woodward. I am certain his family knew him as the best husband and father. He still is! May he rest humbly in heaven at the Master's feet.! Linda Cave Nixon
Linda Brinn Novick left a message on January 22, 2016:
My condolences to Mr. Bold's family. He was a great principal, and a very fair respectful man. He talked to us like people not "kids". I was in Woodward's class of 1974 and he was a great addition to the school.
Lesa Hall-Thatcher left a message on January 22, 2016:
Lit a candle in memory of Norman Bolds
condolence-advertisement Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Lance Silburn left a message on January 22, 2016:
A true man amongst men. Class of 1976 here. When I lost my parents a year and two days apart in my freshman and sophomore years Mr. Bolds spent time with me to make sure I was as "ok" as I could be. Additionally, even though he knew that my brother did not live in the district and that is where I was living after the parents passed, he allowed me to stay at Woodward with my friends. That one move did more to let me move on to be a success in life than anything else. He is sure to have a most special place in heaven....he earned it.
Kim Jones, Class of 1975 Woodward High left a message on January 22, 2016:
Lit a candle in memory of Norman Bolds
Kim Hunter, Woodward '74 left a message on January 22, 2016:
I have many childhood memories and high school memories of Mr. Bolds. My sincere condolences to the Bolds' family. Mr. Bolds was a great principal!
Kim Hunter left a message on January 22, 2016:
Condolences to the Bolds' family. May God comfort you and give you peace.
Kathy Peeks left a message on January 22, 2016:
Condolences to the Bolds family
karen brumfield left a message on January 22, 2016:
Sent a gift in memory of Norman Bolds
Julie Ventus left a message on January 22, 2016:
Condolences to your family
John Copenhaver left a message on January 22, 2016:
RIP Mr. Bolds. Always a man of great dignity, pride and professionalism. What a great example for young men at Woodward. Praying the family. Woodward c/o 82
Jerry Geller left a message on January 22, 2016:
My sincerest sympathy to Norm Bold's children. Jerry Geller
Janet Reid left a message on January 22, 2016:
Mr. Bolds was a beautiful person who changed the course of my life in Cincinnati via his role at the Chamber. I am forever grateful to this wise, warm, kind and inspirational leader. We all were blessed to have had him among us.
Fred Jones left a message on January 22, 2016:
Mr. Bolds was my Summer School math teacher at Ach. Later my Mom worked for him at Woodward. He a tough love mentor. He will be sorely missed. My sympathies to the Bolds family in their time of loss. Fred Jones
Fanita Costner left a message on January 22, 2016:
Lit a candle in memory of Norman Bolds
elise waxler left a message on January 22, 2016:
Lit a candle in memory of Norman Bolds
dessie pulliam left a message on January 22, 2016:
To the Bolds family, Mr. Bolds had a tremendous impact in my life. I met him when I was a student at Samuel Ach Junior High School. I have since relocated to Atlanta ,Ga. I have been here for 31 yrs. Mr. Bolds will be sorely missed by anyone he has touched upon this path of life. It was my honor to know him. Mrs. Dessie R. Pulliam
Debbie Coleman left a message on January 22, 2016:
Class of 1980 Thank you Mr. Bolds for your encouragement and words of wisdom. Debbie Coleman
David Roth left a message on January 22, 2016:
Good Journey Uncle Norman! Condolences thoughts and prayers to the Family and friends!
Cynthia Wilks-Cotton left a message on January 22, 2016:
Rest in peace Mr. Bolds. Woodward Class of 78
Cassandra Banks left a message on January 22, 2016:
Lit a candle in memory of Norman Bolds
Bridget Shives-Faciane left a message on January 22, 2016:
Lit a candle in memory of Norman Bolds
Brenda Darby Wilson left a message on January 22, 2016:
Brenda Darby Wilson class of Woodward 1979. Thank you for the 4 wonderful years of encouragement and protecting us along the way.
Brenda Darby Wilson left a message on January 22, 2016:
Lit a candle in memory of Norman Bolds
Beverly Baughman Mallory left a message on January 22, 2016:
Norma , Doris , Jan , and Kellye Mere words cannot express how saddened I was to hear about the loss of your father. Your father became a surrogate dad for me when my dad died. He was in daily contact with my mother when he was my principal at Woodward High School. His discipline, concern, and reporting to my mom continued at Carmel Presbyterian Church. I'm so glad I had the opportunity to visit and share with him how instrumental he was in my life. I know he was happy to see your mom again as she greeted him with arms full of heaven's bargains!!! During your challenging moments remember how blessed you were to have the parents you did for the time you did. Mommy sends her love!! Love you ladies, Beverly Baughman Mallory
Betrenia Crawford Bailey left a message on January 22, 2016:
WOW.. I was class 1981, and I remember so vividly walking the hall's at Woodward High School, ducking Mr, Bold and Mr Rankin due to skipping class LOL :-) ! Never caught by Mr, Bold, a couple of times by Mr, Rankin :-) ! It's been over thirty years ago , and I remember it as if it was yesterday . This man was more than a principal to the Woodward family.. he acted the figure of a FATHER to many of US ! He was very thorough , and much adamant in disciplinary actions LOL.. He'll be well missed by many , but never forgotten.. R.I.P , Mr, Bold..
Angela (Hurt) Bates left a message on January 22, 2016:
Lit a candle in memory of Norman Bolds
Will Thomas left a message on January 21, 2016:
My sincere prayers and condolences to the family of one of the greatest educators in the nation.......Mr. Bolds. Thank you for the impact you made in my life nearly 40 years ago.
wendell Young left a message on January 21, 2016:
Mr. Bolds was one of my teachers at Samuel Ach Jr. High School. Famous for his "head slap," Mr. Bolds was loved and feared by the students. I will always remember him as a dedicated teacher and positive role model. I also got the pleasure of working with him after I became an adult. I found him to be the man I admired as a child and counted him as a friend. I will always have fond memories of Mr. Bolds. My condolences to his family and friends.
Victoria Prather-Edwards left a message on January 21, 2016:
I have such great memories of Mr.Bolds. He was not only my Principle at Woodward High School from 1973-1975, but he was also my Junior High School Principle at Heinold Junior High School. He was an excellent principle, well respected, showed such dignity and a polished professional. He made a way for me to attend Woodward which was not my neighborhood school, by providing a Special transfer, because he felt thst it was in my best interest. Thank you Mr. Bolds for your leadership and integrity. Victoria Prather-Edwards
Tina Deal left a message on January 21, 2016:
My heart breaks for the Bolds family, and for every life that Mr. Norman Bolds touched. He was for me a principal, a confidante and a friend. Mr. Bolds always encouraged me, and helped me to understand the impact that the decisions I made would have on my future.. He made my high school life easier to navigate. I thank the Bolds family for lending him to "his students" over the years. I admired his wisdom, knowledge and understanding that I know came from a higher power. Please know that your family is in my prayers, and I know that Mr. Bolds is with Jesus. We will all see him again in Paradise. May God bless you, keep you and comfort you.
Sue Walker left a message on January 21, 2016:
Mr. Bolds was my teacher at Samuel Ach Jr.High School he was one of the best. My condolences to the family God Bless. Sue Walker
Mr and Mrs Dorsey Porter left a message on January 21, 2016:
Our deepest sympathy ,Mr. BOLDS was an awesome teacher . he taught my husband and I . Barbara and Dorsey Porter . PEACE .
Kenneth Jenkins left a message on January 21, 2016:
Wow,...Rest in paradise Mr. Bolds...i respected your no nonsense approach to education , accountabilty, and excellence my experiences with him began in 1973 and would have lasted untill 1977 , had i not relocated with my family in 1975 !!..My deepest sympathy and condolences are extended to his family during this time
Karen L. Smith left a message on January 21, 2016:
Mr. Bolds was a great principle. RIH Karen L. Smith~Woodward High c/o 1979
Jacqueline Collier White left a message on January 21, 2016:
Mr. Bolds was a great principal and leader whom we all Loved. He really took care of his students. A great legend that will be sorely missed. Jacqueline Collier White, c/o 1973.
Jacque Wright Mays Sims left a message on January 21, 2016:
I was in Mr. Bolds' math class for the three years that I was at Samuel Ach junior high school he taught us advanced math courses and excellerated experimental courses through the years that I was there and participated in! I am truly sorry to hear of the passing of Mr. Bolds, we remained very good friends down through the years and he was an excellent teacher as well as individual, he will be truly missed! Jacque Wright Mays Sims
Dwaine Freeman left a message on January 21, 2016:
Bolds believed in talking to students instead of punishing them.....he was approachable and always had a smile on his face.....condolences to the family
Dorothea Shanks left a message on January 21, 2016:
My sincere sympathy to the Bolds family. Mr. Bolds was my summer school teacher one year. He helped me succeed, right when I needed it. Rest in peace! Dorothea A. Shanks
Donielle Madaris left a message on January 21, 2016:
My condolences to the family of Mr. Bolds. He was a great principle at Woodward High school. Rest in the Lord's external peace.
Denise Lynch left a message on January 21, 2016:
I attended Samuel Ach Jr. High for one year. Mr . Bolds was my 7th grade Math teacher, He knew my mom, grandmother and seemingly my entire family! Those were just a couple of reasons he will always be remembered, respected and appreciated. Heartfelt condolences to his family and thank you for shared ing him was with us. Respectfully... Denise Bolden Lynch ( Withrow High, Class of 1966).
Carolyn Whitehead left a message on January 21, 2016:
Mr. Bolds was my teacher at Samuel Ach. Great teacher always the professional. My most sincere condolences to the family. Carolyn Riep Whitehead Brown
carla Jones Ranshaw left a message on January 21, 2016:
Mr. Bolds was a great man and loved him as our principle at Woodward, he will be missed but not forgotten
Candie Roberts left a message on January 21, 2016:
I graduated in the class of 1983 from Woodward high school. I had the honor of know Mr. Bolds. He was a kind generous man. Always very fair and kind. Condolences to his family.
britton Petey Carter left a message on January 21, 2016:
It was Mr. Bolds that was the flame that started fires in the hearts of so many of his students....You will be missed.
Beverly Williams left a message on January 21, 2016:
RIH Mr. Norman Bolds from the Class of 1982 Woodward Bulldogs... Beverly Williams
Onnie left a message on January 20, 2016:
"Norman was a great friend and advocate for the Minority Business Community. May he rest in Peace. Onnie R. Martin
Alfred J. Johnson left a message on January 20, 2016:
One of my favorite teachers. You will be missed. Alfred J. Johnson
condolence-image Thompson, Hall and Jordan Funeral Home left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
Show More