He was born March 4, 1948, in Kingsport, Tennessee to the late Mitchell David and Violet Barger Hyatt. A proud Vietnam veteran, David served his country in The United States Navy and the Tennessee National Guard for over 38 years, retiring at the rank of Command Master Chief Petty Officer. He also worked for Eastman Chemical Company for over 42 years as a machinist and was senior manager when he retired. David was known as a Jack of all trades who loved to work on anything and everything, especially restoring antique cars. A devout Christian who was a former member of Brookmead Church of Christ in Johnson City and most recently served as a Deacon at Kingsport Church of Christ. David believed in being kind and helpful to others so that through his example, they would be led to a relationship with Jesus Christ. David adored his family, and especially his grandchildren who were the apples of his eye. He will be sorely missed and his memory treasured by all who knew him.
In addition to his parents, David was preceded in death by his brothers Ed (Mitzi) Hyatt and Paul Hyatt.
Survivors include his wife of 53 years, Althea Hyatt; son, Lee (Melanie) Hyatt; daughter, Dottie (Adam) Martin; brother, Carl (Sue) Hyatt; three grandchildren, Breana (Wesley) Garlock, Sarah Hyatt, and Ellie Martin; two great- grandchildren, Everett and Beckett Garlock; special friends, Randy and Sheri Ward. David is also survived by several nieces and nephews, friends, and his church family.
The family will receive friends Thursday, April 30, 2026, from 5:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. at East Lawn Funeral Home. A funeral service will follow at 7:00 P.M. in the East Lawn Funeral Home Chapel with Minister Tom Kinzel officiating.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in David’s memory to the American Cancer Society, March of Dimes, and the American Heart Association.
East Lawn Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Mr. David Lee Hyatt.
