Carl Wayne Bolyard, age 78, of Johnson City, Tennessee, went home to guard the gates of Heaven on Friday, September 19, 2025, at the James H. Quillen VAMC. He was born in Nashville, Tennessee and grew up in Bluff City, Tennessee, a son of the late Carl Junior Bolyard and June Kelley. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Gregory Salyers and Larry Bolyard.
Sgt. Carl Wayne Bolyard was a proud veteran of the United States Marine Corp. He enlisted in 1966, Platoon 225, graduated in May 1967 and attained the rank of Private 1st Class in September 1967, Lance Corp. During his time of service, he received the following decorations and citations; USMC Service Medal, Honorable Service Medal, Cold War Victory, National Defense Service Commemorative Medals, Vietnam Service Medal with 4*, Vietnam Campaign Medal with device, Good Conduct Medal, USN/USMC Combat Action Ribbon, Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with palm Unit Citation, Oversea Service, Navy and Marine Corp Achievement Medal with Combat “V”, Rifle Sharpshooter, Pistol Marksman, and Presidential Unit Citation. He had worked as a Foreman in Construction. Wayne was the 1st born out of 9 siblings and was a loving big brother, extraordinary uncle and an amazing friend with the biggest Marine heart.
He is survived by his five sisters and brothers-in-law, Diana Lark and husband Donald, Cheryl Haynes and husband Al, Jackie Strong, Linda Gibson and husband Paul, and Darlene Snyder and husband Jack; one brother, Michael Bolyard; several nieces and nephews; and his cat Buddy.
Committal Service and Interment will be held Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Mountain Home National Cemetery historical site with military honors to be rendered by the American Legion Post #3/265 from Kingsport and Gate City, and members of the Marine Corp Honor Guard.
The family would like to extend their thanks to all the Doctors and Nurses on the D Unit at James H. Quillen VAMC for all the love and care that was shown.
The family request no flowers, and memorial donations be made to your local Veterans Association in honor of Mr. Carl Wayne Bolyard. Wayne was a proud US Marine and would have preferred you to help your local veterans in your area.
Arrangements especially for Mr. Carl Wayne Bolyard and his family have been made through Monte Vista Funeral Home & Memorial Park, 1900 E. Oakland Avenue, Johnson City, TN; 423-282-2631.
