James E. Rolen, 68, of Lubbock was born January 8, 1943 in Sherman, TX to Albert and Mamie (Springfield) Rolen. He retired from the United States Air Force after 22 years of service. He married Elda Faye Beniefield August 12, 1964. He loved his family, dancing, barbecuing, gardening and he never met a stranger.

James went to be with the Lord Monday, April 11, 2011. His son: Billy Dale Rolen preceded him in death Oct. 8, 1993 and a sister: Linda.

He is survived by his wife of 46 years: Elda Faye Rolen; his sons: Frank and Aaron Rolen; 2 daughters: Rita and husband David Fischer, and Jennett and husband Steven Azzinaro; his sister: Norma and husband LeRoy Reynolds; his grandchildren: Country and Citi Rolen, Mammi and Myranda Lewis, Lyndon and Loren Abernathy and Aubrey Azzinaro, Stephanie and husband Ryan Snodgrass and Tiffany Rolen; 2 great-grandchildren: Jaden Rolen and Payton Snodgrass

The family will receive friends from 5 to 7pm Friday at Wilsons' Funeral Directors Chapel in Wolfforth.

Services will be at 10:00am Saturday, April 16, 2011 in the same chapel with Pastor Marshal Harris of New Direction Community Fellowship of Katy, TX officiating.

Military graveside services will follow at the City of Lubbock Cemetery.