Jerry ‘Bo’ Bolton Tullis, Jr. (4-28-11)

ATHENS - Jerry “Bo” Bolton Tullis, Jr., 64, died Thursday, April 28, 2011, suddenly, though peacefully at the hospital following a short illness.

He was born in Valdosta in 1946 but grew up in Newnan. After graduating from Georgia Tech with a Bachelor of Science and Industrial Management degree, he entered the U.S. Marine Corp Pilot Training Program and received his Naval Aviator’s “Wings of Gold” in October 1969. He served a volunteer tour of duty in Southeast Asia as a combat pilot, completing over 220 missions, instructed in advanced jet trainers, received the National Defense Service Award, Navy Vietnam Campaign Medal and Air Medal w/Bronze, Air Medal 11th Award.

Bo had a broad range of experience in the construction industry. He was involved in all aspects of the building, construction and remodeling process in both commercial and residential buildings. Bo taught masonry, plumbing, carpentry and electrical wiring at Cedar Shoals High School in Athens prior to enrolling in graduate school. He achieved a Master of Arts in Business Administration, Department of Real Estate and Legal Studies from the University of Georgia in 1982. He was a member of the Athens area Jaycees, serving as treasurer and local president. In 1979-80 he was Athens Jaycee of the Year and Region 12 Director in 1981. Bo’s interests and talents included hiking the Appalachian Trail, vegetable gardening, farming, taking classes at UGA in the horticulture Dept., becoming a Master Gardener with a love for tree and arbor studies and riding his motorcycle. Bo was a member of Church of the Nations and served as an usher. He was a wonderful father, grandfather, and was a good husband with a good heart. He didn’t know a stranger.

Survivors include a son, Josh Tullis; grandchildren Jane, Sam and William and wife Elaine Nathan Tullis.

A memorial service will be held 1 p.m. Saturday, May 7, at Church of the Nations.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the University of Georgia Horticulture Club, 1111 Plant Sciences Building, The University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602.

Bernstein Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.