Lawrence Bolton

1943 - 2025

Lawrence ("Larry") Everett Bolton, 82, passed away on November 12, 2025, after a courageous battle with Parkinson's disease.

Larry was born in Queens, New York, on August 23, 1943, to George and Margaret Bolton. He graduated from Garden City High School in 1961. Larry grew up cheering for the Brooklyn Dodgers and remained an avid sports fan throughout his life.

Larry earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from the College of William & Mary in 1965 and his Juris Doctor from William & Mary Law School in 1968. He began his legal career as an attorney with the Internal Revenue Service, serving in Richmond, Virginia, and Greensboro, North Carolina. In 1981, Larry co-founded the law firm of Boxley, Bolton & Garber, LLP, in Raleigh, North Carolina. He practiced law for more than 50 years, specializing in estate planning, taxation, corporate law, and real property. Larry was respected for his sharp intellect, steady professionalism, and unwavering integrity.

Though Larry loved practicing law, he loved his family even more. In 1967, he married Joyce ("Joy") Oliver McMillan of Selma, North Carolina. Larry and Joy met in Williamsburg, Virginia, a place that remained special to them throughout their lives. They often visited the area and enjoyed many years of attending William & Mary football games as season-ticket holders. Together, they raised two sons, Richard and Everett.

A man of deep faith, Larry devoted his life to serving the Lord and his community. He was a longtime leader of Bible Study Fellowship and helped start StepUp Ministry in Raleigh, where he helped others transform their lives. He also dedicated his legal expertise to serving those in need and was instrumental in helping Habitat for Humanity of Wake County.

Larry is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Joy Bolton; two sons, Richard Oliver Bolton (Angel) and Everett McMillan Bolton (Kathy); four cherished grandchildren, Carter, George, Jada, and Cooper; his sister, Joan Stuart (Ralph), and several nieces and nephews.

Larry died in Christ, living a life grounded in faith, humility, and quiet strength. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose life reflected a deep love for God and for others. Those who knew him will remember his gentle spirit, steadfast devotion, and the countless ways he served with grace and compassion. His legacy of love, faith, and service will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.

A memorial service will be held at Church of the Apostles, 333 Church at North Hills Street, Raleigh, North Carolina, on Friday, November 21, 2025 at 12:00 p.m. The burial will be at Historic Oakwood Cemetery, following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to StepUp Ministry, 1701 Oberlin Road, Raleigh, NC 27608, or Habitat for Humanity of Wake County, 2420 N Raleigh Blvd, Raleigh, NC 27604.