Elaine Bolinger

Funeral Services for Elaine Bolinger, 77, of Sharpsburg, was held 10 a.m. Monday, March 30, 2026, at Sharpsburg Presbyterian Church. Interment was held at Grove Cemetery in Lenox. Memorials may be directed towards the family to be established in Elaine’s honor. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.cummingsfamilyfuneralhome.com

Carolyn Elaine (Barnhart) Bolinger was born on Aug. 6, 1948, in Shenandoah. She was raised in Farragut by her father, Clifford Floyd Barnhart, alongside her brothers and sisters, and later graduated from Farragut High School.

She became a mother early in life, welcoming Rocky Murry, Brian Murry, Carla Goetz and later Cara Patterson. She was married to Clark Bolinger, and together they built a life in Lenox before settling in Sharpsburg, where they remained until his passing. With Clark, their family included Mike Bolinger and Deva Sweeney.

Elaine never believed in the word “step.” To her, family was family. She had a rare gift of making everyone feel welcome, loved and at home, no matter the circumstance. She met people where they were and made the best of every situation, always leading with warmth and kindness.

She had a unique spirit, finding joy in the little things. She loved Hot Wheels, Coca-Cola memorabilia, angels and especially anything to do with cats. These small passions reflected her personality: sentimental and full of heart.

In 2010, Elaine met John Mark Cade, and through that relationship, she became a steady source of love and support during a difficult time. She embraced his family as her own, creating a home filled with care, laughter and comfort. She cherished time spent on the farm, reading and being with Mark, Summre, Skye, and her beloved (and only partly spoiled) cats.

Elaine was an active elder of the Sharpsburg Presbyterian Church and was involved in the Sharpsburg Volunteer Fire Department, serving her community with dedication and heart.

After collecting them for years, Elaine got her very own pair of angel wings on March 22, 2026.

She was preceded in death by her husband Clark Bolinger; her father Clifford Floyd Barnhart; two sisters and three brothers.

She is survived by her children, Rocky (Charlotte) Murry, Brian (Robert) Murry, Carla (Terry) Goetz, Cara (Chris) Patterson, Mike Bolinger, Deva (Josh) Sweeney, Summre (Shane) Deephippen and Skye Bartletther; her partner Mark Cade; as well as many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; numerous other family members and friends who will miss her deeply.