OBITUARY
David Benjamin McCall III
January 24, 1947 – March 28, 2020
On the morning of March 28th, David Benjamin McCall, III of Plano died at the age of 73. David was born in Dallas to Nellie and David McCall on January 24th, 1947.
He attended public schools in Plano, and went on to earn a Bachelors and law degree from Baylor University, where he later served on the Board of Regents. Upon graduation, he returned to his beloved hometown to set up a law firm. He practiced law in Collin County for 48 years.
His love of the community is evidenced by his active involvement at all levels of city, county and state government. Early on, he was elected Chair of the Dallas Area Rapid Transit Board, and was named Plano’s Citizen of the Year. He served on the Baylor Hospital Board of Directors—and, many more, too numerous to list.
Most important, Dave loved people, and people loved Dave. He befriended all whose path he crossed: waitresses, window washers, Governors, and court reporters— treating each as important and special. His easy laugh was constant and those who found themselves around him would soon smile, or laugh.
Dave was a kind, generous, loving man. An exceedingly good man whose advise was sought by the wise, and whose company was enjoyed by all. He was an ideal son, and a good husband, father, brother and friend.
He leaves behind his beloved wife, Sharon; his mother, Nellie; his son Cameron, daughter-in-law Carly and grandson Hunter; his daughter, Meredith; step-daughter Keshia, her husband Alex, and daughter Brynn; step-daughter Arianna and partner, Michael, first wife, Jenny; and, brother, Brian.
The family suggests memorials may be made to First Baptist Plano, 1300 E 15th St, Plano, TX 75074, The Hendricks Scholarship Foundation, 2030 G Ave Suite 1108, Plano, TX 75074, Minnie’s Food Pantry, 661 18th St, Plano, TX 75074 or City House, 830 Central Pkwy E #350, Plano, TX 75074
Owing to the current COVID 19 assembly restrictions, a private family burial will take place, followed by a public memorial when the world rights itself.
Memories
David Benjamin McCall III
have a memory or condolence to add?
ADD A MEMORYMichael Deeds
April 20, 2020
I first met David in conjunction with bankruptcy cases impacting his clients and mine. It quickly evolved into mutual respect and, finally, friendship. We would chat on the phone regarding many things, but it always seemed to be a pleasant time. David and I shared lunches and conversations over a period of years...our wives would sometimes join us for dinners. Each time David strolled into the restaurant he had a smile on his face and we always had something new to discuss...the family farm...his stand of peach trees....travel with Sharon...plans for the future...politics...it all unfolded effortlessly and time flew by. I'm going to miss him. God bless.
shep stahel
April 20, 2020
Dave introduced me to the Plano Sunrise Rotary Club fifteen years ago. Each Friday morning at 7:00 am when the meeting begins, I remember him fondly . We worked together when he was on the DART Board and at various other civic events, but Rotary has had the most lasting impact for me, and for his mentoring I am most grateful.
Gail Wine
April 6, 2020
We’re sorry for your loss. David was a very special person.
Harvey and Gail Wine
Emmett Funderburk
April 5, 2020
David McCall was one of my roomates in 1965, our freshman year at Baylor. He was a joy to be around, quick witted and always had some great comebacks. David and I were lifetime friends and I have been thinking about many of the memories we shared. One is my first date with my wife; we double dated with Dave and Jenny.
I came to Baylor from Alabama and spent numerous weekends and short holidays with the McCalls. What a wonderful family! Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family. May the peace of Christ be with all of you.
Marian and Emmett Funderburk
Tom Walton
April 4, 2020
David and his folks were some of the "Best Plano People. " He was a kind and understanding attorney and great civic leader at the local and regional level. He was always smiling and never forgot an acquaintance . He always made you feel good.
He will be sorely missed by those of use who had the pleasure of knowing him .
Tom and Mary Lee Walton
Mike Simpson
April 3, 2020
Our hearts go out to the family and to his many close friends. While Sandy and I were not close personal friends, I got to know David after moving to Frisco and getting involved in politics. As a City Council Person in 2000 and later as Mayor of Frisco from 2002-2008, there were many occasions we met and as everyone has said he was always very personable, friendly and willing to talk on any issues you wanted to discuss. He will be sorely missed and will be remembered as a pillar of Plano during its growth era and as one who gave to and cared for others.
God Bless David.
Mike & Sandy Simpson
Lea & Gary Randolph
April 3, 2020
What a blessing Dave was to Plano and all those he touched. His smile and humor always made you feel special. Gary and I cherish our many short/fun conversations with Dave through the years. Prayers and Love to the family.
Lea & Gary
Cathy Feagin
April 3, 2020
Deepest Sympathy to David McCall III Family.
I did not know David III but knew his grandfather
& his realative's in Farmersville, Texas.
May God give his family peace during this time.
God Bless each of you.
Carol Ann and Jerry Brantley
April 3, 2020
Jerry and I are shocked and heartbroken. We’ve known the McCall family since we moved to Plano in 1976. Dave was our friend, our attorney, and with that quick wit of his would always make us laugh. He modified our wills SO many times, he would always ask..”ok...who did you have Thanksgiving with this year?!?” He would never charge us a fee. So we just started taking him a thermos of Jerry’s famous bloody marys, champagne or some other libation. And he would always send us a handwritten “thank you “ note.
We will miss Dave.
Carol Ann Brantley
Larry Flannery
April 3, 2020
Wonderful guy & friend. His Dad & my Mom passed within a day of each other Every year thereafter he would call me to have a drink together in their honor.
Just the kind of guy he was. We will miss you my friend!
Karen Cage
April 3, 2020
Ed and I were saddened to learn the spark that was once David's life has been extinguished. While Ed was usually on the opposite side of David on most issues, he respected him.
Karen and Ed Cage
Ajijic, MX
Lewis Isaacks
April 3, 2020
The world lost a great man last Saturday. I was blessed to have practiced law with him for over three decades. During that time I witnessed a man of integrity live life with a great fervor, always with a smile and sense of humor. He left his imprint on all he touched, whether in civic events, local government, or the people that were blessed simply by encountering him. He was at home on his tractor at Snow Hill just as much as he was chairing a DART meeting or being a keynote speaker at a public event. My life was made more complete than I can ever express just by knowing him. My heart is saddened by his unexpected passing. He left a rich heritage that is evident by all the memorials that have been shared by so many. My, and Paula's, deepest sympathy goes out to his family- a man's greatest contribution is the ones he leaves behind. I know a part of his spirit will continue to live in all he touched.
Darrell McDonald
April 3, 2020
David, Emmett Funderburk and I shared a house on 11th street in Waco back in the Baylor years. The memories are many and happy! I was very sad to hear of David’s passing, may the family cherish the memories they accumulated thru the years. God Bless!
Candace Fountoulakis
April 3, 2020
David was essential to the preservation of Old City Cemetery in Plano as its association was set up to enable restoration to occur. He defended Young Cemetery in Plano as well from unlawful restriction as an historic Texas cemetery. He did all of this without compensation as a service to his community. Gratitude for such selflessness cannot be properly expressed. Plano's future will be so much brighter because of his care for its past.
Gary Basham
April 2, 2020
It’s really difficult to put into words how I feel about Dave McCall. So much fun to be around because he always made me feel like a good friend. I first met him in 1976 through Rotary. His brother and Dad were just like him. What a blessing to have known all 3 of them. He will be missed by everyone.
God bless Mrs McCall and Sharon and the rest of the family. Rest In Peace Dave. Save me a place at your table.
Mike Newman
April 2, 2020
Dave and I shared a special connection since that night in Tino's bar when we discovered we were born on the same day in the same hospital in Dallas and from then on would always speculate who was the oldest. But my favorite memories of Dave were when I would photograph an event (gala, auction, awards ceremony, etc.) and David McCall III was listed as the emcee or speaker. A job he was often recruited for. I knew it wouldn't be the same old dry program. Dave was always fun with that same great sense of humor he shared with his dad. Dave was always good for a crazy pose or well practiced funny face. I will surely miss our lunches once a month. My best to the McCall family.
Jean Newman
April 2, 2020
My favorite memory of Dave will be the way he leans into a conversation with a friend, eyes twinkling, gentle smile, soft voice, his tone connoting the intimate camaraderie of two souls who value each other.
I will miss his tender presence as the days move forward.
With much love,
Jean
Carole and Howard Greisdorf
April 2, 2020
David McCall exemplified leadership in all its forms. And, he also exemplified kindness, friendship, generosity and love. When Howard and I moved to Plano, Dave was one of the first people to call and welcome us, and his words were, “Let me know if I can do anything for you, any time.” Those words were echoed over and over as he served as a founding member of the Plano ISD Education Foundation, a founder of Leadership Plano and so many other organizations in our community. It was such a privilege to know this warm, generous, and funny man and to observe his love for his family and this community. If anyone ever left a legacy, it was Dave McCall, and he will be sorely missed.
Florence Shapiro
April 2, 2020
Our hearts are heavy because we have lost our dear friend , Dave. Dave was one of a kind and he will be genuinely missed by each of us. May all our amazing David Mc Call stories and memories sustain us through this difficult time. To the entire McCall family, I send my love and hopes for G-D’s blessings on each of you. Florence
Janie Pena
April 1, 2020
I knew David as a great leader; loving father; husband and brother. His great sense of humor could ease a room, lift a heart and make everyone relax and feel appreciated. I was blessed to call him friend and will miss him greatly. Prayers for you, Sharon, and the entire McCall family.
Brian McCall
April 1, 2020
David McCall was my brother. No matter what happens to me going forward, no one can ever take that away. I’ve never known a better man. I, and many others, are all chewed up inside. The loss of a good man does that. Brian McCall
Toni Thomas
April 1, 2020
The Ben F. Thomas and the James L. Thomas Jr families extend our heartfelt condolences the the McCall Family. We are honored to have known David not only as friend but a member of our own family. David’s integrity and character was unmatched. He worked tirelessly for the Douglass Community , the City of Plano and people in need. We are honored to have had Elias Franklin Thomas attend McCall Elementary and currently have Cooper Thomas Gibbs attending the school. David is family, our friend and mentor. He will be missed.
Linda Madon
April 1, 2020
Please accept my deepest sympathy for the loss of David. His family and mine were active members of First Baptist Plano when we were children. His parents and mine were friends and David and my brother are just a few months apart in age. As the younger sister I certainly knew of the McCall family while growing up in Plano, a well respected family. I did have the opportunity to interact with David in my role as the Exec. Director of Finance for Plano ISD since David served as the district's delinquent tax attorney for many years. We were honored to sit at David's table a couple of times for the Plano ISD Education Foundation's Ski Plano event as well. I am most grateful for his tireless work with Collin County officials to ensure the courthouse was renamed in honor of Russell Steindam, my sister-in-law's brother. It is only due to David's efforts that this action took place a couple of years ago. His love for life and people will be greatly missed. He made a difference in Plano and Collin County.
JOE OWENS Sr
April 1, 2020
While I was working at The Home Depot just around the corner from David's office, David came in one day. I ask Him, what are you doing here? He said I came to see You! He always tried to make you feel important. What a class act He was.
john wroten
April 1, 2020
Leahray & I both were shocked to hear of David's death. Brought back many fond memories of an outstanding man. I am reminded of early morning coffee once a week with David, his Dad and one or two others to solve the world's problems. I have learned a lot from the McCalls..We will miss him.
Suzy Jones
April 1, 2020
To the McCall family:
Please know how very sorry I am for your loss. David was kind and caring man. When I think of leadership in Plano, he is often first in my mind. Thoughts of love and peace are with each of you.
Suzy Sloan Jones
John Hickey
April 1, 2020
David was a wonderful and life long friend to our entire family.
We all grew up in the same neighborhood, where our mother, Loreta Hickey, still resides. David looked after our mom, and whatever legal needs she needed met, and always did it pro bono, and with great patience and love and understanding. We loved him as if he were part of our own family, and our deepest sympathies go to Sharon, Nellie, Brian, and his entire family. David was a great man. Sincerely, John Hickey and family
Alice Hobbs
April 1, 2020
We want to share our sorrow and deepest sympathies to all of David McCall’s family. David played such a huge role in our community: I was fortunate to learn from him in Leadership Plano and then to know him through Rotary. He epitomized the role of Servant Leader. We will truly miss him in Plano.
Alice and Bill
Doug Otto
April 1, 2020
David helped welcome my family to Plano in 1995. He was such a staunch supporter of Plano ISD - his advice was always welcomed and meaningful. I will miss him.
Andy Wimpee
April 1, 2020
David was a friend and a gentleman. I first knew David at Baylor but knew him better as we both were in Plano starting our careers. The first office that I opened in Plano was in the office space with David and Howard. David was always there for anyone that needed a friend or to talk with about anything. Over the last year we had been meeting about once a month for lunch to discuss doing a project together and talking about Baylor and what Baylor meant to us both. As late as Thursday last week we exchanged a text confirming that since everyone is being locked down and we could not meet for a while for lunch that we should plan to both get a take out lunch and set up a conference call together the following week. I will miss David and his friendship. May he rest in Peace with the Angels.
Billie Owens
March 31, 2020
Joe and I were saddened by the news of David’s passing. He has served us well as our Attorney for over 40 years. More importantly, we count it our blessing to call him a friend. He is was one of the kindest, most genuine individuals we have ever met. He loved everyone unconditionally. He loved the City of Plano and served it well through periods of unprecedented growth, while staying true to the plans set out by those who went before him. May God hold each one of you tenderly in His arms as you celebrate a life well lived and rejoice in the knowledge of David receiving life’s richest reward. God Bless you all.
Liebby Elias
March 31, 2020
Our thoughts & prayers are with you Shaky and family. Sending love and light.
Nancy Humphrey
March 31, 2020
Comfort to Sharon and all of David's family members near and far. I will miss David's smile and kindness. His generosity toward the Plano community is a great example for all of us. He was a founding board member of Hendrick Scholarship Foundation, loyal supporter of the Plano ISD Education Foundation, and City House. He always cared about those in need.
Richard Wells
March 31, 2020
I served with David on the Hendrick Scholarship Foundation board and met with him and several matters of church business for FBC. Always willing to help with any issue with a smile and that easy going style that all that knew him remember. Thank you David for your tireless service and example of the Rotary motto "Service above self "
Sara Bonser
March 31, 2020
In the time that I have served as Superintendent of Plano ISD, I learned quickly that David McCall was a champion. He was a champion of the city and of the school district. He was a champion of students and families. I had lunch with David three weeks ago and we talked about the history of Plano and the future ahead for our community. David was a friend and he was a wise voice to count on. Plano ISD is better because of him and I am thankful to call him my friend.
Janet Chenoweth
March 31, 2020
I remember more than 35 years ago when David and I were continually together as couples, Jenny and Mike Hall and I. He was such an encouraging friend, ALWAYS WITTY AND HONEST. I cherish those days of special times, as our children were born and growing up. I appreciate your offer of legal and friendly counsel when we were going through our divorce. May your children and all who loved you be close to Christ in the days ahead. Love, Janet Hall Chenoweth, HOUSTON, Texas
David Smith
March 31, 2020
Condolences to the family and friends of David McCall III. His contributions to our civic life were very much appreciated. This includes not only his service on the numerous boards and commissions listed in the obituary but also his presence at many nonprofit events as an emcee, auctioneer or just a participant supplying just the right amounts of wit and wisdom to make the event and the organization's mission a success. David was a key part of a golden era shaping Plano into the City of Excellence it is today. Thank you. David, you will be missed.
Marilyn Brooks
March 31, 2020
My heart aches for the McCall family. Like so many others in our
community, I have known the family for a long time. We all have
special thoughts about Dave, especially his warmth and his wit.
I am so grateful for Dave and his kindness. He was a rock for me
as I navigated the business I had to attend during the weeks following my husband's death. He was patient and caring as I
asked for and received his invaluable help.
Sharon, you are in the thoughts and prayers of your "painting
pals". When it is possible, we will paint again and we will wrap
you in our arms and hearts.
Marilyn Brooks
Yoram Solomon
March 31, 2020
I met David when he came to speak to our Leadership Plano class. Boy, did he know the history of the city! And he was the only lawyer I’ve ever know to tell lawyer jokes... He will be greatly missed in Plano!
Bruce Glasscock
March 31, 2020
Great loss to Plano community. David is one of the reasons I ended up in Plano 30 years ago. He sat on my initial interview panel and we became long time friends after my appointment. Could always count on David for a good laugh and a good book to read. He'll be deeply missed in Plano.
Ken Bangs
March 31, 2020
I grew up in Plano. It was such an idyllic time and place. As I think back there are men whose names immediately come to mind, those I will always remember as heroes, men who mad Plano what it was and had the vision to prepare it for what it has become. Men like Daivid McCall, Jr., Nathan White, dr. George Apple, W.O Haggard, Rutledge Haggard. Of course, I knew David from school. But he also fits into this list. David is and will remain one of the giants of those who built Plano. RIP David, you will be missed and remembered fondly. Prayers for his family to find the peace that surpasses our ability to understand.
Randy LaJaunie
March 31, 2020
So sorry for your loss. We moved to Plano in 1966 and David was a fixture of the community and and member of our church. A great man that will be missed. We had a graveside service for our dad on Friday. It just doesn’t feel right without their celebration of life at the time.
Prayers to the family, Plano lost a great one!
Alan Barnes
March 31, 2020
David was a man of integrity and dignity.
Over the years, his support, interest, advice and friendship was invaluable to my family and I. A wonderful sense of humor and a talent for making everyone he met feel special, never asking for anything in return.
His passing is not only a tremendous loss to family and friends alike, but to the community as a whole.
I was privileged to know David and I, like many, will miss him.
Judy Taylor
March 31, 2020
I will never forget his smile, his jokes, his service to all, and his kindness and selflessness! He was a great man, raised by two great people. We have lost a great friend! My condolences to his family. May they somehow find peace within,
Judy Taylor
Kathy Booth
March 31, 2020
I only knew Dave for a short time but the time I did have of knowing him, was truly an honor. He was a the most gentle, full of life, caring and extraordinary person I have ever met. My heart and prayers goes out to Sharon and his entire family. May he rest in peace.
Margaret Saigling
March 31, 2020
I was honored to become friends with Dave about 1964 when I served along with him on the student council at Plano High School. I’ve always looked up to him as a friend and a professional. And, he was quite a comedian! He will be dearly missed! Sending prayers and condolences to his family!
Tom Hickey
March 31, 2020
First, I want to thank the Good Lord for blessing all of us with David. Dave was the definition of a beautiful soul. We are so saddened and heartbroken right now. He meant so much to my family. He meant so much to the city of Plano. I had the pleasure of growing up with Brian in Plano, and in 1967 I went with Brian and his parents to Waco, for a Baylor football game and to see David while he was in school there. David was always so funny and you just loved being around him. He helped my mother so much through the years. I pray for his family right now that they may find peace and comfort in this difficult time. I love you Dave, rest in peace my friend.
Charles Tilley
March 31, 2020
David was most instrumental to my business TilleyVision in Plano.
He helped me purchase and build my building at 18th and J in 1978.
Had it not been for his assistance and help it would not have been possible.
He was a friend from the start.
Peggy Tallant-Burkard
March 31, 2020
I have known the McCalls since I was little. I spent a lot of time playing at their house. I am so sorry to hear this news. I talked to Dave a few years ago about my parents. Prayers go out to his family especially Brian and his mother.
Lynda & Jim McDevitt
March 31, 2020
Our thoughts and prayers go to the family. Your description in the biography was perfect. We are so proud to have spent time with David and of course enjoyed every minute of that time. God Bless the McCall family.
Mike Brodie
March 31, 2020
I first came to know David in 1974 upon my arrival to Plano. He was immediately welcoming, out reaching , and soon became a great friend. Through many community, civic, charitable, and political activities he was always gracious, kind and giving.... and let’s not forget his sense of humor! A Plano icon, he will forever be missed.
Pat Blackburn (Pearson)
March 31, 2020
Thank you, David, for the many ways you touched so many of our lives. Your kind, thoughtful & giving spirit lifted this world and all of us in it. As a member of the Plano High School Class of 1965, we shared some classes and great fun. Even at that age you made a big difference in the lives of others. Your accomplishments are great and even impacted people who will never know you. Everyone that met you was drawn to you by your warmth and kindness and your belief that people are inherently good. You are a man whose purpose is greater than himself.
Thank you to your whole family for sharing you with us; your love for them was so deeply rooted. Your parents raised a beautiful soul and you used it for the good of others. David you have left such a void in this world, but by serving in this world you have left a mark that will continue long beyond your years. My uncle Charles Raper knew you and your family since the 1950s and always spoke of what incredible people you all are. My heart goes out to your mother as I know the pain of losing a child can be overwhelming. Also to your wife, children, grandchildren and brother as that loss is so deep. Please know that God blessed each of you with David and that his vigil continues from above as his love will always live in your hearts.
David, our loss of you is hard to bear and I feel great sadness. However you will not be forgotten. Your laughter, your example, your kindness will always be with us and now we will need to pass on to this world what you gave to us.
Sincerely, Pat Blackburn Pearson
Howard Shapiro
March 31, 2020
Dave was my best friend for 48 years-we laughed,cried, raised families, played golf, partied, travelled, and shared our innermost thoughts and secrets—I was so lucky to have had my FRIEND for so long-we talked nearly daily and I will miss him dearly-rest in peace my friend.
Cary Israel
March 30, 2020
David was my Mentor and friend. He accomplished much for Collin College and our communities! He was a fabulous lawyer with a wonderful sense of humor... he made us smile.
My deepest sympathies to Sharon, Brian, family and friends. We will miss him. May G-d comfort all of us during this time of sorrow.
Nathan White
March 30, 2020
It would be impossible to say in a few words how I feel about David. His family and mine have been close for almost 70 years in so very many ways. His passing is so unexpected. His presence was always a welcome thing to see and enjoy. The thought of his absence brings a tear and and feeling of pain. He was so much a part of the Plano and Collin County community that he will be sorely missed by all who knew him and especially by Wanda and me..
Richard Schell
March 30, 2020
I am very sorry to hear that David has passed away. I have known Dave almost all of my life, having grown up next door to him and his family in Plano in the 1950's and later having practiced law with him in the same firm during the 1970's. Dave was an excellent lawyer and a lot of fun to be around. He had the quickest wit, and he always had a funny story to tell you. I had lunch with Dave less than three weeks ago, and he seemed to be fine. Life is unpredictable. I send my sincere sympathy to his family including Mrs. Nellie McCall, Brian, Sharon, Jenny, Meredith, Cameron, and other family members.
Melody Burton
March 30, 2020
David was an outstanding member and my friend of the Plano High School Class of 1965. During his HS years he served as Vice President of Student Council; member of the National Honor Society; Treasurer of Future Teachers’ Association; Vice President of the Thespian Society; American Legion Boys’ State Representative and delegate to the Attorney General’s Youth Conference; voted Most Talented Senior; served as a Chemistry Class Assistant; performed in the award-winning District One-Act Play; participated in both Photography and Slide Rule Clubs; and was Senior Class Favorite.
David was a warm, welcoming, and kind person with a positive outlook on life and a fundamental faith in humanity. He could always put you at ease with his funny stories. Some I heard more than a dozen times, but never got tired of hearing them.
What will I remember most about David? His laugh, his love for his family, his kindness and sincerity, and his general belief that everyone is good and means well.
David’s death was sudden, but his life was not faint. His memory will always be with us, and his legacy will continue through his children.
If he were here with us today, he would have some funny story to tell to make everyone comfortable, and we would, for a moment, forget our sadness. We will miss our friend, and we are so grateful for having known him. And, I add my love to his sweet mother.
May we find peace knowing that his was a life well-lived.
Melody Burton
Wayne Benton
March 30, 2020
For years Dave would call me on my birthday which is in October and ask my age. When I would tell him he would say " my, my that is old. I won't be that old until way into next year". His birthday was in January. I will truly miss him.
N. Scott Carpenter
March 30, 2020
To my mentor, thank you. To my friend, you will truly be missed. From the moment I was sworn in as a new lawyer you were there to support and encourage me as I launched into private practice. Your words of advice have stayed with me to this day. The times we shared in your office talking about politics and the law will not be forgotten. From the Carpenter Family, your impact on our lives and the Plano and Collin County community will stand the test of time. RIP David.
Maryann Livengood
March 30, 2020
Dave was always such a kind and caring person.
He was extremely generous and always made people feel
welcome. He was also a very good listener. From the moment
I met him in 2006 he was nothing but kind and generous.
Mike Whitley
March 30, 2020
Great friend, great man. You will be missed. RIP Dave.