David Stapleton

David Stapleton, age 78 of Maryville, passed away Friday, August 5, 2016 at UT Medical Center. David played varsity football and graduated from Maryville High School in 1957 then served honorably for three years in the US Marines. He worked at Ted Russell Ford and retired as the assistant Body Shop Manager after 20 years. He transitioned into a second career at Belk’s in Maryville where he worked for another 10 years. David served as a Deacon at Maryville First Baptist Church and served in the First Impressions Ministry. He cherished his Encourager’s Sunday School class and the entire church family. He was an active member of the Gideon’s International. David had a deep passion for fishing and the outdoors which he shared with many people in the community; especially his close friend Jeff Smith. He was preceded in death by his parents, Nell & Roy B. Stapleton; brothers, Clark, Ralph and Jim Stapleton. He is survived by his loving wife, Lynda Stapleton; son, Neal; sister, Vivian Paine (Pete), brother, John Stapleton (Carolyn), step-sister, Jackie Gamble; sisters-in-law, Nancy, Jo and Margaret Stapleton; mother of their son Neal, Betty Sue Stapleton; stepson, Richard Morton (Kim) and step-daughter, Traci; grandchildren, Taylor, Jackie, Jesse, Terrance and Eric Morton; many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. The family will receive friends Thursday, August 11, 2016 from 5:00pm – 7:00pm at Smith Trinity Chapel. Funeral service will follow at 7:00pm with Rev. Emerson Wiles, Rev. Charles Ballard and Mr. Joe Hall officiating. The family & friends will assemble at 9:00am Friday, August 12, 2016 at Grandview Cemetery for interment with military honors. Memorial donations may be made to Maryville First Baptist Church, 202 W. Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Maryville, TN 37801 or the Gideon’s International Blount County South Camp, PO Box 4035, Maryville, TN 37802-4035. Smith Funeral & Cremation Service, Maryville handling funeral arrangements, 865-983-1000. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of David Stapleton please visit our Sympathy Store.