Obituary of Sam Johnson Bolling, Jr.

Sam Johnson Bolling, Jr., 76, of Goochland, Virginia, departed this life suddenly on Tuesday, January 18, 2022, after enduring weeks of illness in the hospital. Born and reared in Goochland, surrounded by the families of his father, Deacon Sam J. Bolling, Sr. and mother, Deaconess Lettie M. Sims Bolling. Sam grew up as a quiet country boy who was known to peddle the contents of his delicious, home packed lunch and snacks to the highest bidder. He graduated from Goochland's Central High School in 1964. Sam was nine years senior to his brother, Russell, who he fiercely adored. The age gap helped him develop a strong work ethic that he carried throughout life. Sam was drafted into the Army in 1965 and courted the love of his life, Katherine Crump, with letters and calls from overseas. After an honorable discharge in December of '67, they wed in January of '68 in a well-attended ceremony at New Hope Baptist Church. His family grew quickly. The addition of baby Jamille, inspired Sam's passion to make a better life for his family. He was enterprising and worked several jobs to make ends meet. He dedicated his life to providing for his family. But life wasn't all about work, close friends enjoyed hanging in the back yard with "Boo" listening to tunes while working on a vehicle. Members of the CB Club would radio "Shaggy Dog" as they travelled locally and along the Eastern coast. He was an unwavering fan of most sports but especially the Chicago teams – Bears, Cubs, and Bulls. Sam was a loving, strong, kind, and supportive son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend. He always emphasized to "choose joy daily" in his actions and deeds. He was quick to laugh and greeted everyone with a smile. A life altering accident forced early retirement from Beaumont Learning Center in 1990. Despite the struggles of paraplegia, Sam continued to choose joy. His knowledge and guidance were the foundation of his family. He was their primary advisor and biggest cheerleader in any activity in which they were involved. His passion and integrity were steadfast. His infectious smile and hearty laugh will live on forever. Sam had a gift of making everyone feel comfortable. Countless health professionals have assisted since that fateful day in December 1989; however, the past nine years have required key services from Amedisys Home Health and the Blue Clinic at Hunter Holmes McGuire Hospital. Many have commented that Sam was a source of positivity. In retirement, Sam enjoyed viewing sports, talking on the phone, surfing the internet, playing online games, and watching his grandchildren grow, especially Zina, his only granddaughter. He enjoyed good food, a good laugh, and good conversation – most notably, a daily banter with cherished friend, Glenn Holland. He was a lifelong member of Ebenezer Baptist Church in Goochland filled with devoted family and friends. He will be missed more than words can say. Left to celebrate his life are: his wife, Katherine, of 53 years; his four daughters, Jamille Bolling, Sandra Bolling, Anntoinette Clarke, and Sharita Bolling; his grandchildren, Paul Bolling, Jamaul Harris, Tyler Clarke, and Zina Bolling; his brother, Russell Bolling, Sr. (Shirley); his five brothers-in-law, Charles Crump (Susie Robinson), Spencer Crump (Barbara), Ernest Crump, Joseph Crump, and Aaron Crump (Shelia); his sisters-in-law, Carrie Crump and Estelle Crump; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. All held him in the highest regard and loved him dearly. Sam was predeceased by his parents. In accordance with Sam's request not to be buried "in the cold ground," a Celebration of Life homegoing will be held on Saturday, April 16th at 1 PM. The homegoing will take place in the theatre at Central High School Cultural and Educational Center located at 2748 Dogtown Road, Goochland, VA 23063. We kindly ask that masks be worn regardless of your vaccination status. In lieu of floral tributes, please direct any donations to Ebenezer Baptist Church, 5011 St. Paul's Church Rd, Goochland, VA 23063, in honor of Sam Bolling's memory. Forever Loved, Forever Missed, & Forever in our Hearts! Our Loving Father By Unknown God took the strength of a mountain and the majesty of a tree. The warmth of a summer sun, the calm of a quiet sea. The generous soul of nature and the comforting arm of night. The wisdom of the ages and the power of the eagle's flight, The joy of a morning in spring and the faith of a mustard seed, The patience of eternity and the depth of a family need, Then God combined these qualities, When there was nothing more to add, He knew His masterpiece was complete, And so, He called it – 'Dad!'