Obituary of David E Irvin

David E. Irvin of 80 years went to his eternal home on Thursday, January 28, 2021 from his earthly home in Tracy City TN, with many of his loving family by his side. David was in the United States Navy (USN), retiring with an honorable discharge in December 1980 with 22 ½ years of faithful service. Additionally, he was medically retired from the United States Post Office (USPO) in 1993. He was a respected pillar of Mt. Zion Independent Baptist Church in Coalmont, TN. He held the position of lay preacher, Treasurer and shared his love of music as a soloist, until major health issues intervened. At age 18, he decided to join the Navy but his naval career almost didn’t happen. His recruiter told him to drink water and eat bananas all night if he wanted to meet the weight requirement to enlist. While on leave with the military, he married his high school sweetheart, Katherine E. Irvin on September 5, 1959. They left their home of Tracy City and began their amazing journey with the military. Through his career he rose to Yeoman First Class and became an admiral’s writer. He met diplomats, prime ministers and heads of states and visited many countries. He volunteered to fight in Vietnam where he earned the US Navy commendation medal with combat “V” in addition to many other medals earned throughout his military career. In 1973, he became an ordained minister of the Gospel. While stationed in Germany, he started a mission there. He continued to preach through the years and enjoyed using his career and life experiences to apply God’s word to his message. He was known for his stories and could talk to you for hours, even if you did not have the time, you made it. He impacted many people with his wit and sometimes dry humor; no one was a stranger in his eyes. Telling his stories to others will remind us of his love for God and all who were around him. He treasured his family and enjoyed being grandpa to his many grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his son, Kenneth David Irvin; his parents Robert Clark and Susie Ann (Nunley) Irvin; brothers Paul, Freeman, George Enoch and sisters Esther and Etta. He is survived by His wife Katherine Elaine Irvin Tracy City, sons: Gene H. Irvin (Vickie) North Carolina, Bryan K. Irvin (Georgina) Cane Ridge, TN, Eric S. Irvin Tracy City, TN; daughters Sherrie L. Thomas (Jared) Tullahoma, Pamela K. Stevens (Jason) Spring Hill, TN; twelve grandchildren and six great grandchildren. Funeral Service will be 2:00 P.M., Monday, February 1, 2021 at Mt. Zion Independent Baptist Church in Coalmont, Tennessee with Pastor Andy Lockhart officiating. Interment with military honors will immediately follow at Bonny Oaks Cemetery in Coalmont, Tennessee. Visitation, Sunday, January 31, 2021 from 2:00 P.M- 8:00 P.M. and Monday, February 1, 2021 from 9:00 A.M.-12:00 Noon, at Cumberland Funeral Home in Tracy City, Tennessee. Online condolence and memories can be shared with the family at www.cumberlandfuneralhome.net Arrangements by Cumberland Funeral Home, Foster and Lay Chapel, 96 St. Clair Street, Tracy City, Tennessee 37387.