David Bethea
Mr. David Allston Bethea of Pine Bluff, Arkansas, passed away Saturday, March 16, 2013, at UAMS in Little Rock.
He was born, May 20, 1942, in Century, Florida, to the late Anna Claire and Joseph Allston Bethea.
David received his early education at the Robert E. Lee School in Montgomery, Ala. and completed his Bachelor of Science in History at Huntingdon College in Montgomery, Ala.
In addition to his parents, David was predeceased by a brother, Joe Noble Bethea.
He is survived by his wife, Patricia Taylor Bethea, to whom he was married 51 years; two daughters, Catherine Brooke Morgan of Benton, Elizabeth “Beth” Allston Doughty (Ben) of Bryant and the light of his life, granddaughter, Anna Claire Morgan, also of Benton; a brother, John Goodman Bethea (Gayle) of Eclectic, Alabama, and a host of other beloved family and friends.
He was a member and actively involved in First Baptist Church of Pine Bluff, serving as an ordained deacon, past-Chairman of the Church Administrative Board, member of the Church Surveillance Committee and a member of the Bob Norton Bible Class. He was for many years a member and officer of the Watson Chapel Lions Club and a regular part of the R.O.M.E.O. and B.O.R. E. D. (coffee hour groups).
David served on active duty with the United States Marine Corps and continued to always acknowledge his love for God, country and family.
He spent a 35-year career with Exxon Company U.S.A., retiring as a Senior Territory Manager.
A lover of history, David was an avid reader, loved golf, sports fan and an avid supporter of the Alabama Football program. He left a special word of thanks to his friends and ever-there as helpers, Rick Manning, Martin Carty and Billy Kittler.
Visitation will be Tuesday 5-7 p.m., at Robinson’s.
Memorial Services by Ralph Robinson & Son will be 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, March 20, 2013, at First Baptist Church, 6501 South Hazel, Pine Bluff, Arkansas, with Reverend William K. Thornton and Reverend Matt Norton officiating.
Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, Budget Fund.
Online register at www.ralphrobinsonandson.com