Creed Kelly Boatright, Jr.

Please click here to view the Live Stream of the Funeral Service for Mr. Boatright. The Live Stream will begin at 12:00pm on Sunday, November 16th.

For those unable to attend the service, please click here to view the service remotely.

Creed Boatright died peacefully at home on October 12, 2025. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Phoebe Atkinson Boatright; his daughter, Hope E. Shurm (Sharon Kay Boatright) of New Kent, VA; his son, Steven Neal Boatright of Dallas, TX; and his nephew, Gregory Dale Tucker of Columbia MO. 

Creed was born on June 30, 1935, in Big Stone Gap, VA to Creed Kelly Boatright and May Campbell Boatright. Growing up in extreme poverty, he decided at an early age that he was the master of his own destiny. He worked full time jobs while attending high school and joined the Air Force as soon as he graduated. He remained in service for five years. He then accepted a position as an electronics technician with the federal government for the Department of Transportation at FAA. In 1979 he was regrettably forced to resign on a physical disability. In 1980 he was well enough to serve as an electronics consultant for SAIC and JWK International Corporation developing parallel runway operations. Hе соauthored an Airways Facilities Common Principles Training Program in January 1981. Unfortunately, his poor health prevented him from being part of the team for the project's completion. 

Creed's quiet determination to persevere in the face of many obstacles allowed him to prove the doctors wrong when, 46 years ago, they were pessimistic. In spite of the health challenges he faced, Creed was always upbeat and got enjoyment from a number of interests. He was a dedicated sports fan and loved following his teams, the Washington Senators/Nationals, the Washington Redskins/Commanders, the Tennessee Volunteers, and women's basketball. He loved playing cards, especially poker and bridge, much to the dismay of his opponents. He had a strong affinity for horse racing and went to the track frequently with his wife and close friends. He continued to follow the horses on TV when he could no longer attend in person. He was an avid golfer and an original member of the Crofton Senior Members Golf Association. Creed was extremely proud of the fact that he and his father-in-law won the annual Member/Guest tournament. 

Creed was devoted to Phoebe and her family. He was determined to provide a better life for his two children. He loved traveling, when he was able, whether it was to William and Mary, the beach, Hawaii, England, the Bahamas, Las Vegas or to family events. He attended every event for his nieces and nephews that he could: birthday parties, graduations, sporting events, concerts, baptisms, vacations and holiday gatherings... 

Twenty years ago, Creed and Phoebe were blessed with their "adopted grandson" who Creed was proud to call his buddy. Creed also provided a "home away from home" for his great nephew while he attended the U.S. Naval Academy. On his 90th birthday, Creed was thrilled to meet his great great nephew.

Creed will be remembered for his quiet demeanor which had a calming effect on everyone, his intellect, his listening skills, his incredible memory, his sense of humor, the smile more seen in his eyes than anywhere else and his soft, soothing southern accent. He will be missed.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial contribution to the following organizations:

Hospice of the Chesapeake

Lorton Community Action Center