HAMLET — David S. Winstead, 87, of Hamlet, passed away peacefully, Sept. 27, 2021, after a brief illness.
David Solomon was born Aug. 31, 1934 to Stephen and Ruth Winstead.
He served honorably in the United States Coast Guard from 1952 through 1956 aboard the USCGC Mendota and at Portsmouth Naval Base, Virginia. After his Coast Guard service, David went on to serve his community as a police officer with the Raleigh Police Department. He later attended and graduated from North Carolina State University in 1962 with a degree in Textiles Engineering. Marrying his devoted wife, Nina, in August 1958, together they lived throughout the Southeast and on the Eastern Seaboard as he pursued his career in textiles. They had their only son, Mark, in October 1964. David was a wonderful family man and husband. David and family eventually settled in Hamlet in 1978 and have resided there since.
David was a social, active man who was deeply involved in helping his local community. An active supporter and participant in the AMVETS, Lion’s Club and Civitans, He could be counted on to assist those in need. From childhood onward, he enjoyed playing baseball, softball and especially basketball. His favorite leisure activity throughout his life was fishing, which he loved to do with his son, grandson and close friends. He once remarked that the best day he had ever had fishing was the day he helped his grandson, Sam, catch his first fish. Along with fishing, David loved his boats whether they be saltwater cabin cruisers or the many freshwater jon boats he owned over the years. His pets, both dogs and cats, held a special place in David’s daily life. His family and friends will always remember him as a compassionate, strong person dedicated to his family, his community and his country.
David is survived by his wife of 63 years, Nina Oakley Winstead of Hamlet; his son and daughter-in-law, Mark and Kristine Winstead of Midland, Georgia; his grandson, Samuel B. Winstead; his sister, Rose Loyd of Wake Forest; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Stephen and Ruth Winstead; and his brother, Ralph Winstead.
A memorial service to celebrate David’s life is schedule for 2 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 9, 2021 at First Presbyterian Church, Hamlet; a reception will follow in the Fellowship Hall. Pastor Belinda Rice will officiate. All are welcome to attend.
The family would like to thank the many, many special angels here and away who have shown us the depth of their care and compassion in this very difficult time.
Memorials can be made to First Presbyterian Church, 200 Rice St., Hamlet, NC 28345.
Harrington Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the Winstead family.
Online condolences may be made at www.harringtonfuneralhome.com.
