Dwight Bolling, born August 20, 1949, in Virginia Beach, Virginia, passed away on August 23, 2025, at the age of 76.
Dwight was known for his humor, his cheerful spirit, and the deep love he had for his family. If you knew him, your life was brighter, happier, and more complete.
Devoted to his family, Dwight was married for 59 years to his loving wife, Connie D. Bolling. Their marriage was a true partnership, marked by devotion, laughter, and unwavering care — especially in the way he tenderly cared for Connie throughout their life together. Together they raised three children — Shawn Bolling, Nathan Bolling, and Ian Bolling — and cherished time with their grandchildren: Aidan, Anna, Charlotte, Eliot, Luke, Samuel, and Valerie. He treasured his time with family above all and made sure his children always knew how proud he was of them.
A true son of Virginia Beach, Dwight grew up surfing and was fortunate to live near the beach for much of his life, where he embraced the ocean, community, and the simple pleasures of coastal living. He shared that passion with his children and carried his love of the water and the outdoors with him always.
He enjoyed the competition of sports and achieved great success in tennis, winning multiple national championships. He also excelled in softball, bowling, and skiing, and never lost his enthusiasm for recreation. Later in life, he enjoyed cheering for his favorite teams — the Commanders, Seminoles, Dodgers, and Celtics. His love of sports was passed on to his family, not only by teaching them the skills of the game but by instilling the pure joy of play.
Education was another defining part of Dwight’s life. He was the first in his family to graduate from college, a milestone that brought him and his loved ones great pride. He went on to attend Florida State University, where he earned his Master’s degree in Sociology — an accomplishment that shaped his career and his lifelong belief in the power of learning. Dwight dedicated 45 years to teaching, shaping generations of students at Tidewater Community College, St. Leo’s College, and Virginia Wesleyan University. More than a professor, he was a mentor who believed deeply in his students’ potential. Many reached out over the years to tell his family that he had changed their lives — a true testament to his calling as an educator.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Homer and Callie Reathel Bolling, and his brother, Gerald Bolling, who together instilled in him the values of truth, reliability, and understanding that guided his life. Those wishing to honor Dwight’s life may do so with a gift to The Surfrider Foundation.
Dwight always wanted to make people smile. May Dwight’s memory be a blessing and a reminder to meet each day with warmth, gratitude, and love and may you remember him the next time you go surfing, play tennis, or goof off with your children or grandchildren.
