David Anderson Willingham

David Anderson Willingham, aged 60, passed away on Oct. 3rd, 2022 in his home in Salisbury, NC. He was known to his friends as “Dave”. He is survived by his mother, Jacqueline Elizabeth “Libba” Willingham (Greensboro, NC); his father, James David Willingham (Spokane, WA); his sister, Mary Willingham; his niece, Lexie Deane; and his great niece, Felicity Hailey; aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. David was born to Libba and David Willingham on September 1st, 1962, at Duke Hospital in Durham, NC. David attended Penncrest High School in Media, PA and received his GED in 1983. He was elected president of the Student Government Association at James Sprunt Community College where he completed an AA degree in 1991. He earned a BA degree in history from St. Martin's University in Lacey, WA in 2001, where he graduated Cum Laude. David served honorably as a US Marine from 1987 to 1989 in the Fleet Anti-Terrorist Security Team Company (FAST Co.). While serving, he earned an Expert Rifle Badge, an Expert Pistol Badge, and a Good Conduct Medal. It was during his service to his country that David sustained the injuries that ultimately led to his death. David worked in numerous professions including the restaurant industry, truck driving, case management for youth with mental health diagnoses and developmental disabilities, foster care, juvenile justice rehabilitation, sales, and management. When his medical problems prevented his employment, David immersed himself in his passions, which evolved as his mobility changed. He was a lover of bunny rabbits, and he was a history buff. He was a highly skilled photographer and volunteered his skills and time to the Livingston Football team. He collected antique photographic equipment. He was an audiophile with an extensive collection of high-quality music and equipment, ranging from Rock and Roll to classical. Pink Floyd, David Bowie, Queen, Jethro Tull and the Beatles were among his favorites. David found comfort and meaning in music lyrics and fantastically written and acted movies. David was sentimental and a keeper of family history. He was a lover of justice and pursued this ideal in his life. He embraced a Buddist philosophy that helped him bear the difficulties he encountered. A private celebration of life will be shared with David’s family and friends. Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude’s Hospital, a charity that was close to David’s heart. St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, Tribute #23151203 501 St. Jude’s Place Memphis, TN 38105 800-608-3023

David Anderson Willingham

September 1, 1962 - October 3, 2022