David Lee Beatty Sr.

David Lee Beatty Sr., a man who built not just structures but a life filled with love and a touch of adventure, passed away peacefully in his sleep on April 7, 2024. David was born on November 27, 1936, in Lincolnton, North Carolina, to Pauline (Finger) and Holly Lewis Beatty in the family home.

After graduating high school early, David embarked on an adventure working with his Uncle Duke on the St. Lawrence Seaway in upstate New York. This experience helped instill in him a lifelong appreciation for hard work and a curiosity about what could come from it.

Returning to North Carolina, David enrolled at Lenoir-Rhyne University in Hickory. Here, his life took a beautiful turn when he met Janice Metts, the woman who would become his wife for 53 cherished years. Janice, ever the charmer, noted his quiet demeanor, handsome looks, and (of course) ‘the car' - David had stolen her heart.

Shortly after their marriage, David's sense of duty led him to join the military. Stationed at Ft. Bragg, his service included a time attached to NATO. Here, his stoicism and resolve proved invaluable as he and his team played a crucial role in safeguarding nuclear weapons. His travels during this time took him to various NATO bases throughout Europe and later Saigon, a city that left a lasting impression on him for its unexpected beauty. David's service also included a stint as a courier for President Nixon, a testament to his trustworthiness and dedication.

Following his honorable discharge, David and Janice settled in South Carolina to raise their son, Lee. While David excelled as a self-employed contractor, his true passion bloomed alongside Janice's love for gardening. Together, they dreamt up and built extraordinary and whimsical creations. Janice, a Master Gardener, would envision the perfect addition to their space, and David, with his skill and ingenuity, would transform those visions into reality. Crafted furniture, remodeled rooms, decks, additions and, of course, bird houses! Every project became a testament to their love and collaboration. Theirs was a home adorned with meticulously researched plants, salvaged objects artfully arranged, and a "hardscape" featured in not one, but multiple statewide newspaper lifestyle sections. Janice's garden club even made it a yearly tour destination! David's quiet demeanor masked a clever mind that could turn everyday items into something extraordinary. Above all, he remained fiercely loyal to his family, a constant pillar of unwavering support.

In his later years, David, moved to Massachusetts to be closer to his son and family. Here, he curiously observed New England and its distinct differences from the South, adding another chapter to his life.

David Lee Beatty Sr. leaves behind a legacy of love, creativity, and unwavering devotion. He will be deeply missed by his son, David Lee Beatty Jr., daughter in-law Bethany and grandson, Rand. Also feeling his loss are several nieces and nephews in North Carolina, Georgia and Florida. And he will be especially missed by his sisters-in-law Merri Kykendall of Atlanta and Jo Weston of Miami.