David Nicholas Burchette

July 23, 1951 – July 21, 2025

David Nicholas Burchette, 73, of Clayton, NC, passed away peacefully on July 21, 2025, just two days shy of his 74th birthday. Born in Raleigh, NC, on July 23, 1951, to Nicholas and Lucille Burchette, David lived a life full of love, laughter, and generosity.

David was preceded in death by his first wife, Rebecca Bowling Burchette; his beloved daughter, Libby Burchette; and his parents, Nicholas and Lucille. Though their absence was deeply felt, David carried their memory with grace and love throughout his life.

He is survived by his amazing wife, Carol Murphy Burchette of Clayton, NC, with whom he shared a beautiful marriage beginning on September 21, 2002. Their bond was filled with laughter, shared passions, and a deep love for the Carolina Hurricanes, whom they cheered for with unmatched enthusiasm.

David was a proud graduate of NC State University and a man of many talents. He loved golfing and fishing with his son, Jeffrey Burchette of Newport, NC, and often reminisced about his best catch—a giant wahoo reeled in aboard Jeffrey’s boat. Together, they spent countless hours building and customizing their homes, creating lasting memories and passing down invaluable skills.

He is also survived by his stepdaughter, Kelly Griffith of Clayton, NC; his sister, Diane Rose (Steve) of Pilot, NC; and his cherished grandchildren: Caleb Jeffrey Burchette, Cara Jordan Burchette, and Camryn JoAnn Burchette, all of Newport, NC. David took great joy in teaching Caleb the finer points of cornhole and horseshoes—never letting him win too easily, but always with love and laughter.

A gifted guitarist, David enjoyed playing 70’s music and sharing his love of classic tunes with those around him. He was known for his playful rivalry with pinecones, counting them daily and trying to beat his own record—a testament to his lighthearted spirit and love for life’s little quirks.

Above all, David was a man with a big heart. He was always the first to offer help, never expecting anything in return. His generosity, warmth, and humor touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Those who knew David will remember him as someone who never hesitated to lend his time, tools, or talents. He gave freely, never expecting anything in return. His kindness, humility, and big heart left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

David’s legacy lives on in the lives he enriched, the lessons he taught, and the love he gave so freely. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A Celebration of Life will be held for David on Saturday, August 16, 2025, from 12-3:00 pm at Deep River Brewing, located at 700 W. Main St. #102, Clayton, NC 27520. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to be made in David’s honor to St. Jude’s Children Research.