Dennis Warren Boatwright of Powhatan, Virginia, will be remembered as a gentle soul, a loyal friend, and a man who found happiness in the simple things in life, family, friends, the outdoors, and more than a few unusual treasures collected along the way. He passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones.

Dennis attended Huguenot Academy, where he played football and made friendships that stayed with him throughout his life.

He spent much of his working life alongside family. Dennis worked with Boatwright Electrical, the family electrical business, as well as Richardson Harris Boatwright Insurance. Later, he followed a different path and became the owner, operator, and cook at Old Tavern Junction.

Dennis was happiest outdoors and especially loved the family farm in Trenholm. Whether he was fishing, hunting, baling hay or tending to the cows and donkeys the farm was a place that was deeply woven into his life.

He was also an enthusiastic collector with an eye for things most people would never think to bring home. Pedal cars, old signs, surfboards, dentist chair - you never quite knew what Dennis might find next. Those who knew him well will understand. If you know, you know.

But the things Dennis owned, the places he worked, and even the hobbies he loved were only part of his story. What mattered most was the kind of person he was.

Dennis was preceded in death by his father, Frederick Boatwright. Dennis is survived by his devoted daughter Gracie Boatwright and husband Brandon, his mother Ruth Boatwright, his sisters Leslie Lingenfelser (Buzz), and Amy Potter (Michael). He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Tyler, Sophia and Callen, nephews and his niece. Dennis was also loved by the extended family he gained through Ladonna Sewell. Lori Ann Armstrong was beside Dennis through his battle with cancer and continued to be there to the end.

Dennis had a way of making life a little more interesting and leaving people with a story to tell and a memory worth keeping. His kindness, friendship, humor, and unmistakable personality will be deeply missed by all who had the good fortune to know him and those stories will continue to be told for years to come.

A Celebration of Life -  open house will be held on Sunday, October 4, 2026, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Bienvenue, 3841 Old Buckingham Road, Powhatan, Virginia. Please drop in as you are able, to share memories and celebrate Dennis’ life.