Cecil Bolling

Cecil Edward Bolling, age 88 of Panama City Beach, FL, peacefully went home to be with the Lord surrounded by family on Wednesday, March 25, 2020.

He was a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, and caring friend to all.

A native of Bristol, Tennessee, Ed was known to be a responsible, hard-working, and very thoughtful man. After graduating from high school, he served in the Air Force before beginning a successful career at The Atlanta Journal-Constitution Newspaper. He was also known for being an avid (and competitive) bowler, fisher, and golfer. A skilled craftsman, he often used this talent to make keepsakes for the family. He also loved time spent with family on beach trips, long walks, and game nights. His servant’s heart always ensured everyone present was well-fed and comfortable.

Ed’s family remembers him having the strongest shoulders — both physically, as he lovingly carried children and many grandchildren on them, and figuratively, as he bore with joy the weight of providing for his family through hard work and determination. His smile and laughter filled the room and hearts of those who knew him, and he was greatly loved and respected by many.

He was preceded in death by his wife Shirley Kinkead Bolling of 46 years; parents Butler C. and Susan Duncan Bolling; sisters Bertha Jane Booher, Artie Mae Fraizer, Margaret Louise Phillips, Lola Catherine Smith, and Mary Lou Durham; and brother B.C. Bolling.

He is survived by his wife Mamie Goines Bolling; brother and sister-in-law Robert Bruce and Rhonda Bolling; daughter and son-in-law Sherry and Clyde Harrison, son and daughter-in-law Robert and Debbie Bolling, and daughter and son-in-law Lauren and David Malphurs; grandchildren and great-grandchildren Melissa and Cas Haddock (Cole, Grant, Averee), Kirstin and David Ryder (Madison, Mason, Annabella), David and Sheena Malphurs, Clyde Harrison (Isabella and Patrick), Robert and Kelly Bolling (Harper and Brantley), Daniel and Anna Malphurs (Gralynn, Micah, Elijah), Jessica Harrison, Rebecca and Josh Watford (Judah and Josiah), and Cristian Cayd Bolling; step-sons and daughters-in-law Eddie and Debra Goines and James and JoAnn Goines; and several step-grand and great-grandchildren with which he was richly blessed.

There will be no service at this time due to the current coronavirus health crisis, but a memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Bay County Council on Aging.

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