Jarone M. Golden

Jarone M. Golden, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Aiken, SC, on July 8, 2026. Born into a military family at Fort Hood, TX, on January 5, 1953, he moved to Aiken around 1957.

Those who knew "Roni" as he was affectionately called will remember him as someone whose warmth filled every room and whose bold sense of humor has been famously displayed in Aiken restaurants for decades. Roni was a dedicated employee at GlaxoSmithKline GSK for nearly 40 years and made a significant impact with his work family there. He was a true joker and prankster at heart, quick with a quip that could lift anyone’s spirits. His love for life was evident in the simple joys he cherished such as building with his hands and spending time with friends and family.

A skilled fisherman, "Papa Roni" as he was later called found peace and contentment by the water’s edge on Golden Pond, a favorite pastime he embraced with his family. He was known as a Grill Master, always ready to gather family and friends for a meal prepared with skill and heart. His hands were never idle; he relished not just fixing things around the house but improving them as well and helping others find solutions for any problem. Sports were another of his passions, with a genuine love for all athletic pursuits.

Family was at the center of Jarone’s world. He is survived by his devoted wife Carol Taylor Golden who he loved dearly, and their children Nicole Golden-Barton (Patrick) of Warrenville, Matthew J. Golden (Emily) of Clemson, and Kaye Owens (Brian) of Aiken. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Dustin Golden (Aris), Olivia Golden, Asher Golden, Jeremy Barton (Alexis), and Tyler Barton (Brooke). Jarone’s legacy further lives on in his great-grandchildren: Grayleigh Barton, Jensen Barton, Bennett Barton, and Conway Barton. Also surviving is a sister, Debbie Gregory (Billy).

Jarone was predeceased in death by his father U.S. Army Master Sgt. Joel M. Golden, Sr., mother Nell Bussey Golden, brother Joel Golden, Jr., sister Linda Bancroft, brother Michael Golden, and niece Kimberly Barlow.

Visitation will be Monday morning, July 13th beginning at 10 o'clock at Shellhouse Funeral Home 924 Hayne Ave. The funeral service will follow at 11 o'clock. Interment will be in Aiken Memorial Gardens.

SHELLHOUSE FUNERAL HOME, 924 HAYNE AVE., AIKEN, SC