We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Derek Shawn Bolton on March 14,2026 surrounded by his loving and caring family. Derek was born January 31, 1981 to his parents James Noah Bolton and Cheryl Tranquillo Bolton in Norfolk, Virginia. Derek was given his nickname "Bobo" at a very young age when it was noticed that he walked bow-legged. As he got older, his walking abilities started to change and at the age of five, Derek was diagnosed with Duchenne's Muscular Dystrophy.
Slowly, Derek began to lose his ability to do the things he loved: playing t-ball, riding his trike, running around outside playing with friends, and playing video games. But thanks to the Muscular Dystrophy Association, Derek was then able to meet with a community of people that shared the same struggles and introduced him to a summer camp, where once a year, other children like him could go and forget about their issues and have fun.
Derek was an avid sports fan, loving different sports from different locales. He was a die-hard Washington Redskin/Commander fan, but also a New England Patriots fan (before Brady). He loved the Boston Celtics, the Pittsburgh Pirates, and the Florida Panthers. Derek had the great experience of seeing a few of his favorite teams and players in person; memories that he cherished forever.
As Derek grew older, his disease progressed, but his attitudes toward life and faith grew larger and stronger. With all the obstacles he faced on a daily basis, Derek never complained about his issues and always kept a positive outlook on life and in hope and trusted God.
Derek was preceded in death by his father James "Nick" Bolton.
Derek is survived by his mother Cheryl Bolton; sister Lisa Marie Davies (Mark); his brothers, Eric Todd Bolton (Frances) and Nicholas Lee Bolton (Michelle) and a hos of cousins, nephews, and nieces.
A Celebration of Derek's Life will be held on Friday, April 17 at 5:00pm at Providence Presbyterian Church 5497 Providence Road, Virginia Beach, Virginia
23464.
