In Loving Memory of Major Herbert Clayton Bollinger Jr., USMC Ret.
Herbert Clayton Bollinger Jr., known affectionately as “Clay,” and by his helicopter pilot call-sign “Sparky,” passed away at his home in Ridgetop, Tennessee, on July 9, 2025, at the age of 55.
Born on July 13, 1969 in Nashville, Tennessee, Clay was the beloved son of the late Herbert Clayton Bollinger Sr. and Vivian Helton Bollinger, and the brother of the late LauraLee Killingsworth. He is survived by his wife, Melanie, and his cherished stepsons, Breyden and Hunter.
Clay dedicated 22½ years of distinguished service to the United States Marine Corps, where he served as a helicopter pilot. Following retirement, he went on to forge a remarkable second chapter of service and mentorship. As an Executive and Close Protection Agent, Clay taught personal defense, law enforcement defensive tactics, tactical close combat, and firearms to numerous groups and private students through organizations including Agape Tactical, the Israeli Krav Maga Association, and the United States Judo Association. He was also a certified dual-purpose K-9 handler through Vohne Liche Kennels.
Clay’s passion for teaching martial arts and his unwavering Marine Corps values made him a well-respected figure and beloved friend to many around the globe. He was a world-class storyteller and “people collector,” with a magnetic presence and endless charm. His blend of sacrifice and genuine love for his people left an indelible mark on all who knew him.
Clay’s legacy lives on in the countless lives he shaped, the stories he told, and the values he carried. His spirit, much like his call-sign “Sparky,” will continue to light the way for those who loved him.
All services will be held on Friday, July 25, 2025: A public service with Military Honors will begin promptly at 1:00 PM at the Middle Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery, located at 7931 McCrory Ln, Nashville, TN 37221.
At 3:30 pm, a Celebration of Life ceremony will be held at the VFW Post 9851, 73 New Shackle Island Rd, Hendersonville, TN 37075.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to K9s for Warriors at https://donate.k9sforwarriors.org in Clay’s memory.
Austin & Bell Funeral Home in Springfield is in charge of these arrangements.
This obituary was published by Austin & Bell Funeral Home Greenbrier.
Obituaries provided free for the community.
This obituary was published by Obituaries provided free for the community.
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