Michael Tommy Bolus

Michael Tommy Bolus obituary, Charleston, SC

Michael Tommy Bolus

Michael Bolus Obituary

Visit the Legacy Remembers website to view the full obituary.
Tommy Bolus died peacefully at home on Sunday, May 30, 2021. He was surrounded by family and friends who prayed with him as he finished his journey here. He will be remembered far past his generation as a classic surfer, world class athlete, 1969 SC State champ wrestler, passionate historian, adventurous friend, infamous and personable lawyer, loyal husband, and a giving father and grandfather. He was a God fearing man of faith with a big heart who loved his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He was a Sunday School teacher in the "Teaching Friends" class at First Baptist Church of Charleston. He was born September 16, 1951 to Dawson Earl and Martha Jean Hayslip Bolus. After graduating from the College of Charleston and the USC Law School, he was a lawyer for 45 years and served as a judge for the City of Folly Beach. He coached sports for kids and was President of the Little League Baseball Association in 1994. From helping the homeless, advocating for the right to surf the Washout, to defending the defenseless in court; he never strayed away from the good fight. He truly was a sight to see as an authentic man. His spirit is carried on in his life by his wife, sons, and grands who love him. He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Donna McLaurin Bolus; two sons, Ashton McLaurin (Courtney) Bolus and Dawson McLaurin (Elisa) Bolus; and four grandchildren, Max Oliver, Milly Vereen, Mae McLaurin and Ronan Clavier Bolus. He is also survived by his sister, Jeannie Lynn (Gary) Kaasa and two brothers, Robert Byron (Joy) Bolus and Dawson Keith (Kathy) Bolus. His Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, June 5, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church of Charleston with Interment at Holy Cross Cemetery. The family will receive friends Friday, June 4, 2021 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at J. Henry Stuhr Funeral Chapel, 232 Calhoun Street, Charleston, SC. In lieu of flowers, please send memorials for "Missions" to First Baptist Church of Charleston: 48 Meeting Street, Chas., SC 29401 or Folly Beach Baptist Church, P.O. Box 50, Folly Beach, SC 29439.

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June 10, 2021

Ralph Henry Williams posted to the memorial.

June 7, 2021

jan sylvester posted to the memorial.

June 6, 2021

Henry Flood posted to the memorial.

Ralph Henry Williams

June 10, 2021

Native #1, I have read all the wonderful comments that your friends have said about you. Every one was true , accurate and deserving. You had an unbelievable appetite for all things life. You and I shared many a feast and more than a few menus. I know I am the only man to have heard you scream underwater. 7th street, 12th street, The Washout, Folly Pier, Pink House, The A Frame, Maria's ( Punta de BaWana ), Dogmans, Steps, Tres Palmas, Sandy Beach, Jobos, Surfer's Beach, Table Top, Table Rock, Bridges, Secret Spot ,Middles, Shacks,
Wilderness, Ruins, S*** House, Tamarindo, Playa Negra, Playa Blanco, Nosara , El Salvadore, Nicarauga, Steamer Lane, Pleasure Point, Blacks, Stanley's Diner,Wind and Sea, San Diego. I am sure I missed a few, but that is what drove us to be self-employed. WAVES and STOKE. You loved your family. You loved the freedom where the UNITED STATES allowed us to flourish. You knew and embraced the real value of time. God you were fun. I loved you. You loved me. WE HAD A BIG TIME !!!! Your friend forever, BaWana

jan sylvester

June 7, 2021

What an absolutely lovely man. He lit up a room with his presence and outgoing personality. He did so much for so many. My prayers are with you Donna and all of your family. Jan Holland Sylvester

Paula Mitchum Strobel

June 1, 2021

I am so sorry to learn of Tommy's passing. Jeanne, Keith and Robert, I will always remember all of the good times we had growing up. Please accept my deepest condolences and know that you all are in my thoughts and prayers.

Henry Flood

June 6, 2021

Tommy Bolus was a giant for me at the College of Charleston and decades after. We talked many times over the years. What I remember most is his humor and towering conservative intellect. We will say a Rosary for him Tuesday.

Henry Flood: 954-624-2051

Chris Renegar

June 6, 2021

What a character. He had a movie star voice. Like Sam Elliott or Jack Nicholson, whenever he entered a room you'd here that voice and know who it was and that fun trouble was on its way. What a personality. Strong as an ox. Gonna really miss him.

Nancy Evans Allegood

June 5, 2021

So sorry for your loss. Sincere condolences.

Alan Tanenbaum

June 4, 2021

Tommy was like the mighty oak, a man with the bark on. We all regarded him with a mixture of admiration and awe. He was a wise man and a good friend and I loved him like a brother. There will never be another like him. He will be much missed in this world. Godspeed hombre.

Dean Ward

June 4, 2021

Crossing the bar (Lord Tennyson)

Sunset and evening star,
And one clear call for me!
And may there be no moaning of the bar,
When I put out to sea,

But such a tide as moving seems asleep,
Too full for sound and foam,
When that which drew from out the boundless deep
Turns again home.

Twilight and evening bell,
And after that the dark!
And may there be no sadness of farewell,
When I embark;

For tho' from out our bourne of Time and Place
The flood may bear me far,
I hope to see my Pilot face to face
When I have crost the bar.

Dixie Button

June 4, 2021

Oh, gosh. I am so sad to hear about Tommy. My first memory of Tommy goes all the way back to high school. He was so smart! I was two years behind him and he was always so nice. Whenever I think of Folly Beach, I think of Tommy. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Amy Korngiebel

June 4, 2021

I was so sad to hear of Tommy's passing. My mother worked with him at Bolus & Shaw and my first job out of high school was there. When Tommy went to be a partner at Joye Law Firm (different name back then), I went with him. He was so calm, intelligent, empathetic and a great educator ... loved his family, loved his work ... loved the surf! To the family, I am so very sorry for this huge loss. ~Amy Korngiebel

Gretchen and Ed Robinson

June 4, 2021

Tommy was always ready with a smile and a funny story. He was a terrific person and the Boluses and Stringers go back a long way. He was a sweet man. He will be missed.

Ralph Houser Jr

June 4, 2021

My sincere condolences go out to Tommy's wife and the rest of the Bolus family. Tommy grew right around the corner from me. I always considered him to be like a big brother to me.He was always a joy to be around. Later in life he was always there for me. I still remember you Jeanie. I spent most of my time hanging out with Robert and Keith at the circle on Cornish Ave.I will surely miss Tommy.

Ralph Houser Jr

June 4, 2021

My sincere condolences go out to Tommy's wife and the rest of the Bolus family. Tommy grew right around the corner from me. I always considered him to be like a big brother to me.He was always a joy to be around. Later in life he was always there for me. I still remember you Jeanie. I spent most of my time hanging out with Robert and Keith at the circle on Cornish Ave.I will surely miss Tommy.

Jorothy Scott

June 4, 2021

I met Mr Bolus thru my dad Mr Joe Scott ever since he has been a great blessing to my family I was saddened to hear about his passing. My family will keep you and your family in our prayers that God gives you added strength in the days to come again you have our deepest condolences..

Stanley Claypoole

June 4, 2021

It hurts to hear of Tommy's passing. I practiced law with him many years ago when we were much younger and invincible. I fondly remember his surfing stories. The world has lost a fine man and he will be missed.

Tracy Blankenship

June 4, 2021

Donna, Ashton, Dawson & family- We are very sorry for your loss. Prayers of love & strength to you all. Tommy was one of a kind and will always be remembered. May he Rest in Peace...

Love,
Joseph & Tracy

Ron Hamilton

June 3, 2021

Tommy Bolus was someone I remember looking up to at James Island High s hook. He was a couple of years ahead of me so I knew Jeanie better. Tommy was an amazing athlete, leader and a gracious, humble man. I work at Dr Beall´s dental office ( Family, Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry) and today staff members commented on how gracious Tommy was to everyone ar every visit thanking each staff member anytime he was there. His mom was an icon at old James Island a person of high integrity, intelligence and wit and Tommy followed well in her steps. He will be missed. RIP, Tommy

Paula Mitchum Strobel

June 3, 2021

Deepest condolences to the Bolus family. I will always cherish and remember the times spent around the neighborhood as children. May you all be comforted through our prayers.

Matt Schwartz

June 3, 2021

I just wanted to wish my heartfelt condolences and prayers to all Tommy´s family members.

jeffrey halter

June 3, 2021

Simply put the greatest person and athlete I have ever known and you were a legend.I will miss you.Love Jeff.

Group of 10 Memorial Trees

O. Grady Query

Planted Trees

Michelle Batchelor Howard

June 3, 2021

Keith, I am so sorry for you loss. My sincerest condolences to you and the Bolus family.

Greg Bush

June 3, 2021

My condolances to the friends and family.

M. Elaine Proctor

June 2, 2021

Donna, Rob, Keith, and Family, I am so sorry to hear of Tommy´s passing. Have you in my thoughts and prayers. May God Bless.

Dory Hornsby

June 2, 2021

My deepest condolences to his family. He was a pillar of the folly Beach community as well as a good friend. Godspeed my friend and if you see Cinderella can you please hug her for me.

Sharon Butler Brackett

June 2, 2021

Gone too soon.
I knew Tommy growing up in Centerville. We graduated the same year 1969. We all looked up to him at JIHS. He became my attorney years later, an excellent man!! Good heart & a Christian. I enjoyed his humor & great conversations.
Saddened to hear this. Sending condolences to his family. May God comfort you in the days to come. RIP "Tommy"

Susan Erickson Weber

June 2, 2021

My heart felt sympathy to his family and friends. I remember his great smile and how sweet he was.

Grover C. Seaton III

June 2, 2021

I had the distinct honor of practicing law with Tommy and getting to know him as great person. I know I will see again. God protect his Family. I will honor him forever as my close friend.

Susan Muniak

June 2, 2021

Larry D. informed me today of Tommy's passing. A sad day but the memories of his beaming personality also bring a smile to my face. Rest in Peace, dear man.

Becky Ackerman Baggett

June 2, 2021

So sorry for your loss, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family

Ray Bowman

June 2, 2021

My Condolences to the Bolus Family!

Edward and Emmie Hollingsworth

June 2, 2021

To Donna and all of Tommy´s family, our hearts are sad for you all, but also rejoice in knowing Tommy loved The Lord and is at Peace. He was a good fellow always with a smile and conversation! He will surely be missed by so many. May God´s Comfort embrace you all and give you strength. God Bless Y´all with loving memories to cherish forever

Laree Hensley

June 2, 2021

Tommy will most certainly be missed. He always had a big smile & a kind word.

Steve and Michele Nutwell

June 2, 2021

This one is hard. Thanks for always being there to help us and many prayers.

Debbie Shokes Mosny

June 2, 2021

I will always remember Tommy from high school for his quick wit and sense of humor! You were a friend to many and will be missed.

Vince Hicks

June 2, 2021

My sorrow is great for a good friend! My condolences to the family, I know that a deep hole to fill. My GOD be with you´ll an my prayers.

Marvin Sineath

June 2, 2021

I am shocked to read that Tommy has passed away. He always worked so hard to take care of himself. We will miss seeing the family at the viewing we are out of town visiting Marty and his family. I will see to it that Marty knows about this. They thought so much of each other and we always enjoyed seeing all of you in the gym. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

George Kefalos

June 2, 2021

John Crumrine sent me this old photo a few months ago. What a great looking couple of guys!

Ricky Rourk

June 2, 2021

Tommy was truly one of a kind and a larger than life personality. He, many times went out of his way to offer me life advice and just a few words of kindness at a time when I truly needed it. Such a good man who will be greatly missed. Prayers for the family in the days and weeks ahead

David Savage

June 2, 2021

My condolences. Tommy will be remembered as a wonderful man and attorney. I never saw him without a beaming smile. A man in the practice of law who truly believed that a rising tide raised all ships.

Neschla McCall

June 2, 2021

My sincere condolences to Tommy's family and friends. We graduated High School together.

Michele Patrao Forsythe

June 2, 2021

We will all miss you Tommy. You were a great lawyer and good friend. I appreciated all of your advice and counsel over the years. Prayers for Ms. Donna and your family.

Raymond Stenstrom Stenstrom

June 2, 2021

Great knowing you ❤

Cathy Weatherford Hyatt

June 2, 2021

My deepest sympathy is with the family as you mourn the loss of Tommy. I have known him many years as we both grew up in Centerville . He will be missed as he touched the hearts of many.

George Kefalos

June 2, 2021

I'm so sorry to hear of Tommy's passing. He was a wonderful man, larger than life and full of fun.

Bob Haley

June 2, 2021

I had the honor and privilege of knowing Tommy as both a lawyer, friend and surfer. My memories run the gamut of Tommy in court fighting (and that is an accurate word) for a client, being with him at the Sand Dollar and several surf trips. One trip in particular stands out as, I believe a testament to the man, we (John Crumrine, Keith Bolus, Tommy and me) went to Puerto Rico and surfed a spot called "Wilderness." The waves had 20 foot faces, there were sharks swimming in the lineup, and when the waves broke on the reef the beach literally moved. He was fearless. It was the classic confrontation between the immovable object (Tommy) and the unstoppable force (the waves). I didn't even paddle out, but Tommy did and he owned those waves. It is that fearlessness I will always remember. I will miss you "Gomek". God speed.

Ricky Myatt

June 2, 2021

Tommy you will be greatly missed,
from the sand to the surf. I still remember you sucking down those honey packs before each wrestling match. Catch you on the other side save me a wave or two!!

Charlie Smith

June 2, 2021

Donna and family- I truly enjoyed my friendship with Tommy and so much appreciated his friendly and loving demeanor inside and outside of Church and Sunday School activities. Please know that we are praying for your loss and will continue to do so. H
e was a pleasure to be with.

Keith Kornahrens

June 2, 2021

I am saddened to learn of the passing of Tommy. He was one of the fiercest competitors I have ever known. Tommy was passionate about the causes he undertook and fought hard for his clients. Many years ago I was in a seminar at MUSC and a fellow attorney was sharing his story of "addiction and recovery". A lady in attendance objected to the speaker's references to God and the role God played in his recovery. Tommy stood up and objected to her objection and artfully reminded everyone there that the speaker had every right to espouse his belief and gratitude in God. I was very proud of Tommy and gladly joined the majority who stood and applauded him for standing up for his beliefs. We will all miss him but all who know Christ as Savior will see him again. I extend my condolences to the family and pray God's peace which surpasses our understanding will comfort them until that day.

Keith Kornahrens

Roy DeHaven

June 2, 2021

Prayers for the family and friends of "Tommy" as he would say were his lesser friends and family or "Michael" those he cherished. He was that rare attorney who could boil down the most complicated legal matters into a quick understanding for his clients. Many knew him to be helpful to the elderly and poor people he encountered. I never saw him surf but he could tell whoppers about an 8' wave he caught at Folly.

David Popowski

June 2, 2021

My deepest
sympathy to the Bolus Family. Tommy was my colleague at the Bar for many years and you could take his word to the Bank. I will always consider him The Lawyer of Folly Beach.

Lester Schwartz

June 2, 2021

I am so sorry about the passing of Tommy. I had the pleasure of knowing him as a kid and after becoming an attorney. I always thought Tommy was the coolest guy I knew! May God bless Tommy, his family and the entire Bolus family at this sad time.

Ed Howell

June 2, 2021

It is such a shock to learn of the passing of one of my long-time great friends. One must look long and hard to find such a gentle and loving man as Tommy. He will be missed. My sincere condolences to the family. We shall meet again.

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Not sure what to say?

June 10, 2021

Ralph Henry Williams posted to the memorial.

June 7, 2021

jan sylvester posted to the memorial.

June 6, 2021

Henry Flood posted to the memorial.