John Fredric Bolin

John was the second son born to Ambers Lee and Elizabeth Gold Bolin in Gaffney, SC. He was often described as “a boy of high adventure”. His constant delight in learning about life’s bounteous opportunities to grow in knowledge, savor experiences and discern differences in how other people move through life, made John a happy and delightful person to know.

At 12 years old, John’s occupational potential began in Spartanburg, SC when his mother found him a job sealing cans in the local cannery. In high school he worked as a bag boy, cashier, meat processor, and stocker at Winn Dixie Grocery. He then became the night manager of a gas station, all the while saving his money to buy a car and go to college.

John’s initial college experience led him to graduate with honors and be elected Student Body President at North-Greenville Junior College. He then transferred to Carson Newman College in Jefferson City, TN. It was there he met his life’s love, Patricia Anne Pearce. They were married on August 4, 1967, and shared a happy life together for 58 years raising 2 precious daughters, Angela Nichole (Niki) and Heather Dawn Bolin Francis. They welcomed their son-in-law, John Francis and then delighted in their grandson, Niko Francis.

John’s professional career began in Titusville, FL where he and Pat taught special needs children. After 2 years, John was invited to return to North-Greenville Junior College as Associate Director and later Director of Admissions where he served for 2 years. John was invited to the University of South Carolina where he served in the Undergraduate Admissions Office, becoming the Director of that office and simultaneously serving as USC’s Administration Projects Manager under President James Holderman.

As John’s life would have it, in 1993 he became the Manager of USC’s Carolina Coliseum and adjunct professor of Sports and Entertainment before retiring in 2003.

The “boy of high adventure” enjoyed it all and loved being a part of something greater than himself. He loved the work and the people who shared his work until the end of his life.

The Celebration of Life will be held on July 12, 2026 at 3:00 PM at Trenholm Road United Methodist Church, 3401 Trenholm Road, Columbia, SC 29204.

Reception will be held at the church following the service.