Loren Dow Jolly

By | April 11, 2014

Loren Dow Jolly went to be with his Lord on April 8, 2014, at the SOMC Hospice Center. He was born on July 10, 1922, to Levi and Faye Jolly of Wellston, OH. His growing years were spent on their family farm, a part of which never left his heart or interest. While in high school he was a memorable drum major for the Wellston Rockets. He joined the Navy in 1942 and served for three years as an Aviation Machinist Mate-First Class.

He was married to Ruth Ervin Jolly on August 14, 1949. They moved to Portsmouth in 1951. He was a diligent agent for the Metropolitan Life Insurance Company. Countless relationships were built in those years. During his career he qualified for the Met. Life President’s Conference and the Million Dollar Round Table, retiring after 36 years of service. In 1952 he and Ruth moved to Wheelersburg, OH. They joined the Wheelersburg United Methodist Church, and have been active members since that time. Loren served as a church trustee and a member of the executive board. Community service has been a cornerstone of his life.

In 1957 he joined the Porter Township Volunteer Fire Department. During his 12 years of service he was captain as well as first and second assistant chief. He and Ruth lead an Explorer’s Scout Troop for four years. He was a member of the Wheelersburg Kiwanis and also served as president. He served as a co-chairman for Meals on Wheels. He had an unforgettable handshake, was an avid outdoorsman and loved to grow a garden. He loved his wife and family. But most importantly, he loved the Lord.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Levi and Faye Jolly; his brothers, Rex and Max Jolly; and sister-in-law, Janice Jolly. He is survived by his wife, Ruth Ervin Jolly; sons, Bruce (Mary) Jolly, Jeff (Cynthia) Jolly and Scott (Maria) Jolly; daughter, Rebecca (Bruce) Dripps; nine grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and sister-in-law, Elanor Jones Jolly.

Funeral services will be held Monday, April 14, 2014, at 11 a.m. at the Wheelersburg United Methodist Church, 11605 Gallia St., Wheelersburg, OH. Interment will be in Wheelersburg Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Sunday, April 13, 2014, from 2 to 6 p.m. and one hour prior to the funeral service at the church. Arrangements are under of Harrison-Pyles Funeral Home in Wheelersburg. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Wheelersburg United Methodist Church.