Edward Earl Boles

Edward Earl Boles was born on November 23, 1936, in Islandton, South Carolina. He was the beloved son of the late William Boles and Edna Wiggins Boles Stewart. On Friday, February 27, 2026, he peacefully entered into eternal rest at his home at the age of 89.

Mr. Boles was educated in the public schools of Colleton County, South Carolina. He later furthered his education at South Carolina State College, where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Industrial Arts Education. Prior to completing his degree, he proudly served his country in the United States Army in the Transportation Corps.

After relocating to Greenwood, South Carolina, Mr. Boles joined his brother, Glynn, in business and became the manager of what would later be known as Boles Enterprises and a professional bus driver for Boles Bus Lines, Inc. In this role, he demonstrated strong leadership and vision. He managed operations affiliated with Pure Oil and Union 76 and oversaw charter bus trips and excursions along the East Coast, transporting passengers from Maine to Florida.

A trailblazer in his community, along with his brother Glynn, Mr. Boles managed the first ambulance service for African Americans in the area and operated the first city bus service that ran throughout the City of Greenwood. His entrepreneurial spirit extended to towing services, and automotive repair services, leaving a lasting impact on the local business community.

Mr. Boles was well known in the community for his dedication and strong work ethic. He provided reliable and unforgettable transportation services. He also sold convenience foods, snacks, and supplies—most notably the famous “Boles Hot Dogs”. In addition, Mr. Boles served as a substitute teacher for Brewer High School in automotive mechanics, sharing his knowledge and skills with students.

Mr. Boles was a Life Member of the NAACP, a member of the SCSU Alumni Association and a member of the American Legion Post 224. He was also a faithful member of Morris Chapel Baptist Church in Greenwood, SC, where he served as a Trustee and was part of the Brotherhood Ministry.

Mr. Boles was an avid fisherman and gardener, who always appreciated a good laugh and took every opportunity to make others laugh with his many stories, sayings and jokes. He deeply loved and honored his family, cherishing their visits and ensuring he always had their favorites ready to eat—fresh fish and boiled peanuts.

He leaves to cherish fond and loving memories, his devoted wife, Earlean Williams Boles of the home; two daughters, Leslie (Morris) Boles Lee of Rock Hill, SC, and Karen Boles Owens (Derek) of Rock Hill, SC; five grandchildren, Erika Owens James (Arnett IV), Kayla Lee May (Kelvin), Morris Lee III (Nana Ama), Makenna Lee, and Derek Owens II; three great-grandchildren, Aricelli, Arnett V, and Ande. He also leaves to cherish his memory a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, extended family members, and dear friends.

Mr. Boles’ legacy of hard work, service, and love for family and community will forever be remembered.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at Morris Chapel Baptist Church with Bishop Oliver McCray, Jr. officiating. Interment will follow in Greenwood Memorial Gardens. Mr. Boles will be lie in state at the Church from 10:00 AM until the service hour. 

Public Viewing will be held from 1:00 PM until 5:00 PM on Wednesday, March 3, 2026, at the Funeral Home. 

The family is at the home. 

In lieu of flowers: 
Donations can be made to the following in honor of Edward Boles:

Morris Chapel Baptist Church Building Fund  

Greenwood Alumni Chapter
South Carolina State University (scholarship fund) 
Evelyn Wardlaw, President     
PO Box 50991
Greenwood, SC  29649  

Percival-Tompkins Funeral Home is honored to serve the Boles family. 

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