10/18/2026
Bolling Brown Thompson
Bolling “Bo” Brown Thompson, 76, passed away on Friday, October 16, 2026, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of faith, love, wisdom, and service. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, a respected professional, and a cherished friend, Bo lived with an abiding sense of purpose and a genuine love for others. Those fortunate enough to know him will remember his warmth, his generosity of spirit, and the quiet grace with which he touched so many lives.
Born on April 6, 1950, in Atlanta, Georgia, Bo was the son of the late Dr. John W. Thompson and Doris Hedden Thompson. He attended Vanderbilt University before graduating from Georgia State University. His enduring Christian faith led him to Emory University’s Candler School of Theology and ultimately to ordination as a United Methodist minister. He later earned his Ph.D. from Georgia State University. A lifelong scholar at heart, Bo possessed an extraordinary curiosity, a thoughtful and discerning mind, and a sincere desire to understand both the world and the people around him. He regarded learning not simply as an intellectual pursuit, but as an opportunity for growth, connection, and service.
Bo built a distinguished career as a Chartered Financial Consultant, eventually retiring from Bolling B. Thompson Financial Services. He was known for his integrity, sound judgment, and steadfast commitment to those who entrusted him with their financial well-being. While his professional achievements were significant, Bo valued the relationships he cultivated far more than any measure of personal success. He approached his work with the same thoughtfulness and compassion that characterized every aspect of his life.
Faith was the foundation upon which Bo built his life. He found profound meaning in the study of Scripture, the sharing of spiritual wisdom, and the opportunity to encourage others in their own journeys of faith. For approximately 48 years, he faithfully taught the Bo Thompson Sunday School Class at Dalton First United Methodist Church, creating a lasting community of learning, fellowship, and spiritual reflection. His lessons were distinguished not only by his remarkable knowledge of the Bible, but also by his ability to inspire thoughtful conversation and bring its teachings into everyday life. Bo was also a member of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, where he particularly cherished Thursday evening Bible Study led by Father Rick Tiff. His faith was evident in the way he lived: with humility, kindness, compassion, and an unwavering belief in the importance of loving and serving others.
That commitment to service reached well beyond his professional and spiritual life. For nearly 30 years, Bo served on the board of Big Brothers Big Sisters, dedicating himself to supporting children and strengthening families. He was also involved with the Rotary Club and the American Cancer Society. Whether through community organizations, his church, or simple acts of kindness, Bo gave generously of his time, knowledge, and resources. He never sought recognition for his contributions; the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in another person’s life was reward enough.
Bo also treasured the friendships he formed throughout his life. Among them, his enduring friendship with Dr. Carl Lancaster held a particularly special place in his heart. Their bond reflected the loyalty, mutual respect, laughter, and companionship that Bo so deeply valued. He understood that a rich life was built not only upon accomplishments, but upon the people with whom it was shared.
Above all, Bo’s greatest devotion was to his family. He shared 41 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Toni Infantino Thompson, building a life together rooted in love, commitment, and shared faith. He took immense pride in his family and found his greatest happiness in the relationships he held most dear. Whether offering thoughtful advice, lending a listening ear, sharing his wisdom, or simply being present, Bo had a remarkable ability to make those he loved feel supported, understood, and cherished. He was a steady source of encouragement and strength, and his love provided a foundation upon which his family could always depend.
In addition to his wife, Toni, Bo is survived by his son, Douglas Benafel, and daughter-in-law, Tara; his grandchildren, Mary Grace Mitchell, Sean Harms-Benafel, Alyssa Homan, Tanner Jones, and Mollie Baxter; his brother, Bill Thompson, and sister-in-law, Ann, of Washington, D.C.; and his sisters-in-law, Diane Sikalis and Susan Joseph. He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Sarah Benafel Mitchell, and his parents, Dr. John W. Thompson and Doris Hedden Thompson.
To reflect upon Bo’s life is to recognize that his greatest contributions cannot be captured by academic degrees, professional distinctions, or years of service alone. They are found in the lives he influenced, the relationships he nurtured, and the countless moments of kindness that defined his character. He possessed the rare gift of making people feel genuinely seen and valued. His wisdom was accompanied by humility, his convictions by compassion, and his many accomplishments by an unassuming generosity of spirit.
Bo understood that a meaningful life is not measured by what one acquires, but by what one gives. He gave his family unconditional love, his friends enduring loyalty, his community devoted service, and his faith the full measure of his heart. Through both his words and his example, he demonstrated the beauty of a life lived with purpose, integrity, and grace.
Although his passing leaves a profound emptiness in the hearts of those who loved him, his influence will endure. It lives in the lessons he imparted, the faith he shared, the goodness he inspired, and the love that will continue to unite his family for generations to come.
Bo was deeply loved and will be dearly missed. His was a life of extraordinary substance, quiet strength, and enduring love. Those who knew him will carry not only the memory of a remarkable man, but also the lasting gift of having been loved by him.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, October 30, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 901 W. Emery Street, Dalton, Georgia 30720, following a private family gathering in the memorial garden.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 901 W. Emery Street, Dalton, Georgia 30720, in honor of Bo’s life and enduring faith.
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