David R. Truitt

Dedicated leader, former restauranteur, and devout US Marine Captain, David Richard Truitt, 83, peacefully went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, February 5, 2023.  A devoted husband, father, and friend to many, David passed surrounded by family and friends befitting the manner by which he lived.  

David is survived by his loving wife Susan (Sue Z) of 30 years; sons Scott Truitt (Debbie) and Greg Truitt of FL; daughter Tracy Truitt of FL; and stepdaughter Melissa Buck.  Additionally, he is survived by granddaughter Danielle Truitt; grandson JT Truitt; nieces Kristen Pund (Jack), Carol Kleinschmidt (Marty), and Suzanne Cedrone (Phillip) of PA; and his faithful canine companion, Sadie.   He is predeceased by dear brother Edwin J. Truitt (Joanne) and nephew, Robert.

David, known by Dave to many, was born May 11th, 1939, in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania, to Edwin D. and Christine Lecker Truitt.  He attended Monsignor Bonner High School and earned a football scholarship to attend Penn State University. He was a two-sport athlete playing both defensive end and tight end in football.  He also threw the shot put and was a high hurdle sprinter in the Penn Relays at Franklin Field. He graduated from Penn State University with a bachelors degree in Hotel Restaurant Management.

Dave enjoyed a lengthy, successful career inclusive of numerous professional endeavors, community accolades, and achievements.  His penchant for business came early on, in part, as lead sales and developer of the third (3rd) Marriott Hotel in Atlanta, Georgia.  Following his time at Marriott, Dave gained stature in Sarasota, Florida, as owner-operator of The Windjammer and Davey's Locker, hugely popular dual seaside restaurants.  Following its sale, he continued in corporate and commercial real estate through his remaining years devoting the majority of his time to service and volunteer pursuits.  Helping to enrich young lives was a favorite goal of his, exemplified by his volunteer football coaching years at Landrum High School, and by his passion and contribution to the Arts Education & Outreach Program of the Tryon Fine Arts Center.

Dave was philanthropic at his core.  He never knew a stranger.  His proudest achievements in life were by far his children, family, and the many young (and older) lives he touched while serving and volunteering.  Generous, caring, encouraging, motivational, and inspirational leader are just a few adjectives given by those whose lives were enriched by this very special human being.

Dave cherished his time with his golfing buddies, both on and off the course.  Moving to this community from FL in 2004 won his heart as he witnessed the love and compassion that is exuberated by so many and which he felt so strong especially through his battle with cancer he endured these last three years as a result of the contaminated water at Camp LeJeune from his Marine service days.

Being a private individual in nature, Dave had requested no service except for a private family graveside service to be held by Petty Funeral Home.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Arts, Education, and Outreach Program of the Tryon Fine Arts Center, 34 Melrose Avenue, Tryon, NC 28782  (www.tryonarts.org or 828-859-8322), or the Upstate Community Hospice House, Landrum, SC.

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