Charles “Bud” Martin Golden Jr.

Charles “Bud” Martin Golden, Jr., passed away in Midland on January 13th, 2025, at the age of 86. Bud was born on February 23rd, 1938, in Electra, Texas to Charlie and Inez Golden. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. His legacy will be cherished by those who knew and loved him.

Bud grew up in Electra where he became familiar with the oil field from a young age, living in an oil lease house and working with various tools and machinery. Bud’s warmth and friendliness endeared him to many, and he was never in a hurry, especially when he had the opportunity to share a good story. Known for his generosity, determination, courage, and great sense of humor, Bud enjoyed hunting and fishing in the great outdoors, as well as spending time at the ranch in the Texas Hill Country and in the mountains of New Mexico.

On August 31, 1958, Bud married his high school sweetheart, Judy Sue McBroom, the one and only true love of his life. Shortly after, he began his career at Conoco, holding various roles and moving to Nocona, Big Spring, Ozona, and finally Midland. In 1972, Bud started working for Cotton Petroleum and eventually Apache until 1987. He then branched out on his own, founding Golden Oil and Gas with the purchase of his first oil wells in Upton County. Bud enjoyed a lifelong career in the oil fields of West Texas, finding great joy in solving problems and running the business.

Bud was a founding member of Midland Christian Fellowship and Cornerstone Christian Fellowship, where he served as an elder for over 30 years. Later, he joined Mid-Cities Church and continued to minister to and encourage those around him. Bud loved keeping up with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, setting a strong example as a man of integrity who knew the importance of family.

Bud is now reunited with his beloved wife of 65 years, Judy Golden; son, Barry Golden; parents, Charlie and Inez Golden; and sister, Dorothy McIntire. He is survived by his brother, Jim (Teresa) Golden; sons, Marty (Elaine) Golden of Midland, David (Suzie) Golden of Graham, and Greg (Julie) Golden of Midland. He was affectionately known as Pawpaw to his grandchildren, Emily and Josh Masonheimer, Crystal and Joshua Foley, Misty and Matt Kelton, Amanda and Moises Duké, Dallas and Deneille Golden, Jake and Cathryn Golden, Hallye and Alec Prescott, Trinity Golden, Hunter and Nancy Golden, and Cassidy and Josh Hartung; as well as twenty great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews, all of whom he was incredibly proud.

Grandsons Dallas Golden, Jake Golden, and Hunter Golden, and grandsons-in-law Josh Masonheimer, Joshua Foley, Matt Kelton, Moises Duké, Josh Hartung, and Alec Prescott will serve as pallbearers.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 22nd, at Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. A memorial service to celebrate Bud’s life will take place on Thursday, January 23rd, at 11:30 am at Mid-Cities Neely.  The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Norma Burnett and the staff at Polo Park Estates for their loving care and hospitality. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Teen Challenge.

Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory in Midland.  Online condolences may be made at www.npwelch.com.

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