David Bruce McCart

David "Dave" Bruce McCart, a devoted family man, pioneering sod farmer, and loyal Hokie, passed away peacefully at age 71 on Sunday, October 26th, 2025, at Carolina Caring Hospice House in Newton, NC, surrounded by his loving family and friends.

Born on February 22nd, 1954, in Raleigh, NC, Dave was the eldest of three. His childhood took an impactful turn when his family moved to Brazil for two years while his father worked with USAID. Dave often spoke fondly of this experience, crediting it with fostering his lifelong desire to "do good for others." His father also instilled in him two great loves: Virginia Tech and agriculture.

After graduating from Blacksburg High School, Dave studied agronomy at Virginia Tech. Much like his father, he remained a passionate, lifelong supporter of his alma mater, faithfully contributing to its future and enthusiastically cheering on Hokie college football.

Dave was a dedicated sod farmer, who built his business from the ground up. In 1988, he founded Piedmont Turf Farm in Maiden, NC. In the early days, he was the entire operation—running the business, managing the farm, and trucking the sod to its destination. Even after retirement and selling the farm, he remained deeply proud of the successful, lasting groundwork he laid in the turf industry.

Dave met his beloved wife, Sherrie Cline, through an introduction by Sherrie’s father. After four years of dating, the two were married in 1993. Sherrie forever cherished her "blue-eyed mountain man." Dave made sure their wedding anniversary coincided with yearly TPI convention dates, guaranteeing them a lifetime of discounted travel. Their passport stamps included memorable trips to Cancun, Australia, New Zealand, Hawaii, and, of course, Disney World.

Dave was a man who knew how to enjoy life: golfing with friends, spending time at the Newton Elks Lodge, and acting as chief spoiler for his beloved dogs. He was a faithful member of First Presbyterian Church in Newton. Above all, he was a champion of sweets. The mystery of the vanishing cookies from the pantry and treats from the fridge was often solved by simply looking at Dave.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents, Gerald and Jean McCart, and his great niece Madison Mae Hardell. He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Sherrie Cline McCart; his God children, Cindy and Arturo (aka Bubba) Vidal-Aquino; his brother Doug McCart (Chris); and his sister Barbara Hardell (Ed). He will also be greatly missed by his many nephews, niece, and great nephews.

A Celebration of Life Service will take place on Sunday, November 9th at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel at First Presbyterian Church, Newton. A visitation and reception will follow the service in the church’s Fellowship Hall. A private family burial will be held.

Dave was a famously generous man. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests you honor his memory by making a donation to your favorite charity or organization.