Derrold Lee Bolay

Derrold Lee Bolay, 87, of Red Rock, Oklahoma, was born March 18, 1937, to Clarence Bolay and Gertrude Viola Linden Bolay. He passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, January 2, 2025, Arrangements are under the care of Dighton-Marler Funeral Home in Perry.

Derrold spent his early years in the Red Rock and Perry communities, graduating from Perry High School in 1955. He continued his education at Northern Oklahoma College. On August 25, 1956, he married his high school sweetheart, Vera Mae Sullins, in Ceres, Oklahoma. They shared a beautiful life together until her passing in 2022.

He built a successful career in the oil industry owning and operating Bolay Oil Company for many years. In addition to his work in oil, he also was a dedicated farmer and rancher.

In his leisure time, Derrold enjoyed playing cards, watching Western movies and football, and visiting the casino. Known for his outgoing personality, he was affectionately called a “social butterfly.” He cherished his time at True Value, where he had his own chair to sit and chat with friends. Derrold also gave back to his community by serving on the Red Rock School Board for many years.

He leaves behind a loving family: children, Terry Bolay (Joan) of Perry, OK, Sandra Beier of Edmond, OK, Daniel Bolay (Anita) of Perry, OK, and Lee Ann Gregory (David),of Stillwater, OK; sister: Joann McCollough, League City, TX; grandchildren: Megan Gregory, Waylon Bolay (Ashley), Ashlie Sadler (Tyler), Clayton Sleeger (Amanda), Addie Sleeger, Shelby Knori (Matt), Melissa Colasacco (Tony), Robyn Buie (Brian), Bryan Bolay (Kendra), Brandt Bolay (Patricia), Mikel Hayes Carolyn), Jerrod Hayes (McKinsey), Caleb Hayes (Kamber), Whitney Wolff (Wyatt) , Amy Adams (Kevin), Brandon Bolay, DeAnna Hinkle (Jesse), Michelle Skidgel (Jeremy), and Laura Mc Connell (Doug); and numerous great and great-great grandchildren.

Derrold was preceded in death by his wife, Vera; parents; a son, Dale Bolay; sisters, Betty Nolte and Linda Warner; son-in-law, Robert Beier; and great grandson, Maddox Lassiter.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 9, 2025, from 9 a.m. until 8 p.m. at Dighton-Marler Funeral Home in Perry with family greeting guests from 5 to 7 p.m. Graveside services will take place at 3 p.m. Friday, January 10, 2025, at Grace Hill Cemetery in Perry, officiated by Ronnie Wilson. Pallbearers will be Bryan Bolay, Clayton Sleeger, Brandt Bolay, Bryce Bolay, Waylon Bolay and Tony Colasacco. Honorary pallbearers are Gary May, Robert Kennedy, Ronnie Wilson, David Kennedy, Lyn Canady and Randy Parrish.

Condolences may be sent to the family via an online website at www.dightonmarler.com.