David A. DeBolt of Charleston died February 1, 2026, peacefully at home at age 87.
He graduated from Charleston High School with the Class of 1956. He went on to receive his Bachelor and Master’s degrees from The Ohio State University.
David had a passion for music that never waned. He performed as Principal Bassoonist with orchestras in Charleston, WV; Birmingham, Alabama; Tulsa, Oklahoma and Kansas City. Following these positions, he became a Professor of Music at Kent State University. David was a founding member of Kent Camarata, a chamber music group that performed at many locations in the United States and Europe.
He was quite active in his church, St. John’s Episcopal in Charleston, where he was a member of the choir and facilitated many other musical events.
David was predeceased by his parents, Ruth and E. V. Winston DeBolt, and his wife, Katherine Gerson DeBolt, with whom he shared his love of classical music.
He is survived by his sisters, Martha Cox of Charleston, Mary Broome of Bear, Delaware, as well as his bother, Jack W. DeBolt of Charleston and Jack’s children and grandchildren.
In accordance with his wishes, David has been cremated. A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Online condolences and memories may be shared by visiting www.snodgrassfuneral.com and selecting the obituary. Snodgrass Funeral Home has been entrusted with his arrangements.