Johnny Ray Gilden (Bolivar)'s Obituary
SFC. Johnny R. Gilden (Retired) of Bolivar, Missouri, passed away on Thursday, September 15, 2022, at his home in Bolivar.
He was born on December 17, 1949, in Bolivar to Nadia and Charles Davis.
Johnny enlisted in the Army to fight in the Vietnam War alongside his childhood best friend. After the war, he continued his military career. Johnny found his true calling as a Drill Sergeant in Fort Benning, GA and as a Paratrooper instructor for the 82nd Airborne out of Fort Bragg, NC. Although he loved the military, nothing was more important to him than family. After 21 years of service, he retired and returned home to Bolivar. While in Bolivar, he became active in the DAV, a place where he could continue his service, and where he had many friends and felt a big sense of comradery.
Johnny is survived by his 3 sons and one daughter: Cesar, Jonathan, Robert, and Gissella (Shelly), one brother James, and his sister Connie.
Johnny will always be remembered for his sense of humor and generosity; He was truly one of a kind.
Graveside services with full military honors for Johnny will be held on Saturday, September 24, 2022, beginning at 12:00 PM at Enon Cemetery in Morrisville, Missouri.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Bolivar DAV in Johnny's name.
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