David Etchison

David L. Etchison was born on April 27, 1949 in Shelby, NorthCarolina to the late Sarah Padgett Etchison and Samuel D. Etchison. David left to join the ancestors on January 20, 2024.  Affectionately called “Big D”, David was loved and will be missed by family and friends.

After high school, David became a proud member of the United States Army.  He received an Honorable Discharge Vietnam Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, and the Nation Defense Service Medal.  After his honorable discharge,he returned to Rhode Island where he pursued his love of carpentry. 

David developed into a skilled craftsman who was sought out for his work. David regularly received complements for the quality of his work from his peers and many satisfied customers. He became a mentor and teacher to younger carpenters and builders, who often sought him out for guidance and support.

David always loved spending time with dogs. He particularly enjoyed playing with and training breeds of Police Working Dogs. He was seldom seen without his prized pair of Belgian Malinois: Lady and Rex. They were his loving companions.

David was predeceased by his mother Sarah, father Samuel, his brother James Edward Etchison, and his sisters Brenda Agbon-Lahor, and Linda Etchison Pierce. 

He is survived by his daughter Leilani Etchison, son IsaacGaines, and several grandchildren.  He leaves his sisters Sarah A. Etchison, Mary Etchison, one other sister, and his best friend David Parker. 

David will be laid to rest at the Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Exeter Rhode Island.  A memorial gatheringcelebrating David’s life will be held for family and friends in the summer.

The family thanks everyone who reached out during this time.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent in David’s memory to: Almost Home Dog Rescue, PO BOX 6111, Providence, RI 02940.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.