David Willard Sr.

David Willard Sr., 68, of Morganton, NC passed away on Tuesday, November 10, 2026. He was born on February 1, 1958, in Mineral Springs, Moore county, North Carolina to the late Virgil Carlton Willard Jr. and Betty Jean Willard.

David was "Shine" to his beloved lifelong friends. He was "Paw-Paw" to his many grandchildren that he found much joy in going fishing with. He will be remembered for his joyful, humorous, and outgoing personality as well as his love for the Washington Redskins, Mountain Dew, his love for fixing and detailing cars, winning pool tournaments, and most importantly sharing his love of Christ with everyone that he met. He was a loyal member of several local clubs including the Queen street Meeting Place with AA, On the Hill pool hall, and loved attending worship services with his children and love, Shelley, at Summit Community Church.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister Joy Willard-Smith; brother Marty Willard; ex-wife Nancy Lane.

He is survived by ex-wife Shelley Charles; sons David Jr, Scotty, and Charles Christopher Willard; daughters Jessica Willard and Jeannie Sandoe; grandchildren Dani, David, Kourtney, Natasha, Abigail, Devin, Charley, Shelby, Claudia, Felix, Felicity, Izabel, Izaiah, Lillian, Luke, and Micah; eight great-grandchildren; brother Mitchell Willard; brothers-in-law, Christopher and Brian Williams; sister, Jody Williams.

A service to celebrate David's life will be held at 2:00 p.m., November 14, 2026 at Summit Community Church, located at 407 S Green St, Morganton, NC.

The family thanks everyone for their love and support during this difficult time. Your kindness, comforting words, and thoughtful gestures have meant a lot to our family and we are deeply grateful.

Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.