Andrew John Boles

Drew Boles passed away on July 8, 2025, after a long and courageous fight against Stage 4 lung cancer. Drew was known for his generosity and helping those less fortunate than himself. He was a loyal husband, friend and grandparent to his two grandchildren, Brian and Katie McCarthy. He was very proud of his Irish heritage and was intimately involved with supporting the Irish Republican Army, smuggling firearms into Ireland during the 1970’s and 1980’s for the IRA’s fight for independence from British Rule. He was very proud of his service to the IRA and for his Irish culture.

Drew was a self-employed building and remodeling contractor for over 45 years and was well known for his quality work and honesty. His personal passion was restoring historical homes, buildings, hand- hewn log cabins, barns, including Thomas Jefferson’s original law office located at 1 Court Square in Charlottesville, Virginia. He was also an accomplished gunsmith, specializing in Mausers, Enfields, and Mosin Nagant rifles. He built many custom hunting rifles for friends, family, and customers over the years.

Drew would like to thank his loyal and devoted wife, Wendy Whiting Boles, and dear friends for their continuous support during his 2 year battle with cancer.

Drew leaves behind Wendy Whiting Boles, his loving wife and companion of 14 years; his grandchildren, Brian and Katie McCarthy; his loving and loyal dog, Journey as well as devoted friends, Emily Plunkett, Mike Snead ( who drove Drew to and from UVA Cancer Center for his scans and doctor appointments): Joey Brown, Jeff Rossen, his friend of almost 50 years, Tracey Shiflett, Mary Catherine Brown Holzworth who is everything he wished his daughter’s were, Emily Oliver, Dr. Steven Lewis, Vicky Hodges his gentle and intelligent and supportive chemotherapy nurse for 5 years, Steve Ashton, and Susan and Peter Fisette.

A private memorial service will be held at Drew’s dear friend Emily Plunkett’s home on a date to be announced soon. Each individual will be personally notified by email or phone.

No immediate family members are invited.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, SML, is assisting the family. To send online condolences please visit tharpfuneralhome.com.