David Wilson Gathings was born on February 23, 1949 in Albemarle, North Carolina, to Thomas W. Gathings and Willie Mae DeWeese. Before moving to Charlotte, North Carolina, David lived in Polkton and Wadesboro with his parents and his brother, Thomas D. Gathings.
After settling in Charlotte, David attended Harding High School and later studied at UNC Charlotte. During his college years, he worked alongside his father in a welding business, conveniently located across the street from the university.
In June 1969, David joined the United States Air Force where he became a proud Combat Controller. His military career took him overseas to Germany and Italy and then back to the states at Pope Air Force Base. During his military service, David furthered his education by attending Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, earning a degree in Professional Aeronautics. David took great pride in his service and dedication to his country and retired from the Air Force as part of the 1721st Combat Control Squadron in July 1989 after 20 years of honorable service. After retiring from the military, he went on to work for Walmart, NC Communications and finally Fayetteville Technical Community College.
While living in Charlotte, David met the love of his life, Linda Rosental, at the Purple Penguin. The two were married on January 20, 1975, in Aviano, Italy, where David was stationed at the time. Together they built a loving family while living in Fayetteville, North Carolina, raising their three children: Catherine Heather, David Shane, and Chad Adrian.
David is survived by his wife, Linda Gathings; his children, Catherine Heather Navarro (Sandro), David Shane Gathings (Sarah), and Chad Gathings (Katie); and his beloved grandchildren, Lindsay Navarro, Desiree Rodriguez (José), Kayla Gathings, and Haley Gathings. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren, Benny and Nora Rodriguez.
David will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his honorable military service, his strong work ethic, and the quiet strength and integrity with which he lived his life. He leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and devotion that will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
In the words of David Wilson Gathings…
“The experience of the places I have been, things I have seen, and accomplishments I have achieved are worth a lifetime of memories; but if not for the hundreds of people that I have met either in person, or just in communications, foreign or domestic, my endeavors would not have been possible. These relationships are endless and cannot be measured. What a thrilling ride!”
