Dr. David E. Nixon

Born January 11, 1932 in Charlotte, NC, David grew up in the Elizabeth community where, as a young boy, he delivered the Charlotte Observer and News and later worked at Bennicks Drug Store. Graduating from Central High School, he attended NC State University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Ceramic Engineering, a Masters in Mathematics and a PhD in Statistics. His subsequent career at UNC-Charlotte spanned over 30 years as a professor, Director of the Computer Center, and Associate Head of the Math Department. Dad loved life! He was an avid NC State fan, and also loved watching the Cleveland Cavaliers and Seattle Seahawks. He had many friends and kept a busy social calendar, meeting buddies for breakfast on Wednesdays and Saturdays and movies on Tuesdays, having monthly lunch with his Central High School classmates, and spending early weekday mornings at the Siskey Y. Dad was at the Y by 4:30 most mornings. He enjoyed swimming and then lively discussions over coffee.

Dad never met a stranger and loved people from all walks of life. He had a sharp mind and a generous heart, and was an incredible story teller! Dad’s biggest joy was his kids and grandkids. He loved hosting family gettogethers, visiting the grandchildren, and supporting them in their diverse interests. They adored him in kind. He also published a quarterly newsletter, called Family Ties, which chronicled his travels, family history, and Musings on the grandchildren. After his wife passed away, he became both matriarch and patriarch to his expanding family.

Dr. Nixon was preceded in death by his wife, Nancy, of 45 years, and his mother, Edith Gerrard. He is survived by five children: Jane Rhudy (Steve) of Raleigh, Robert Nixon (Jane) of Roanoke Rapids, Linda Hastings (Larry) of Weddington, Diane Raynor (Mike) of Greer, SC and Ruthie Haugh (Jason) of Cary; and 12 grandchildren – Joanna, Emerson, Hunter (Cameron), Sam, Kate, Grayson, Hannah, David, Addie, Carly, Sophie and Max.

A celebration of life and faith is on Saturday, October 28 at Weddington United Methodist Church, 13901 Providence Road, Weddington. Visitation at 1 pm. Service at 2 pm.

Memorials may be made to Hospice Palliative Care of Charlotte for whom we are deeply grateful for caring for Dad in his final days.