David Kemp Covington, Sr., died Thursday, September 29 at Spartanburg Regional Medical Center, at the age of 70. He was the son of the late Sanford Covington and the late Kate Covington of Rural Hall, NC. He is survived by his wife, Vicki, his son David Kemp Covington, Jr., Kemp’s wife Jennifer, and daughters Fisher and Adler; son Jeff, Jeff’s wife Cindy, and daughter Rayne; son Brent, wife Amy, and sons Jack and Peter; sister Susan Moser, and brother-in-law Harvey Moser.

David’s greatest joy came from his time with family. He spent forty eight years married to the love of his life, and could not have been more proud of his sons and his grandchildren. Their favorite times together were spent laughing, enjoying sports, and vacationing at the beach. At 6’8”, David was an imposing figure, but his gentle nature and caring heart were quickly visible to anyone who spoke with him. He was courteous and kind, generous and honorable, and strong beyond measure.

David’s remarkable work ethic and dedication to service started on the family farm. A scholar-athlete at North Forsyth High School, he was active in many organizations and a stand-out basketball player. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Textile Chemistry at NC State University in 1968. He was a devoted brother in the Delta Sigma Phi fraternity and leader on campus, winning a host of awards as well as intramural and extramural sporting competitions. From 1969-1971, David served in the US Army during the Vietnam War as a First Lieutenant and an advisor to the army and people of the Republic of Vietnam. He received high honors from both countries, including the Bronze Star and the Armed Forces Honor Medal, First Class, respectively. Upon his return to the US, he contributed to the state’s textile industry for more than thirty years as a respected manager, expert and speaker in quality control, most notably with Mastercraft Fabrics, LLC.

David loved helping people. His humble service to God and the community was evidenced by decades of support given to the First United Methodist Church – Rutherfordton, the American Red Cross, the US Census Department, and the Rutherfordton Golf Club, where he acted as President of the Board of Directors, and liaison to the town council.

His life will be celebrated at First United Methodist Church in Rutherfordton, NC, on Tuesday, October 4, with a memorial service at 4pm, followed by visitation with family. An interment service will be held at Mount Tabor Methodist Church in Winston Salem, NC on Sunday, October 9, at 3pm. Friends and family are welcome to attend these services.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Red Cross.

Affiliations