David Borell Boatwright

David Borell Boatwright, a cherished resident of Ridge Spring, South Carolina, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on October 18, 2024. He was born on March 1, 1933, to the late Daniel Borell and Bessie Boatwright. Mr. Boatwright's journey spanned over 91 years, marked by love, service, and a profound dedication to his family, community, and country.

A lifelong resident of Ridge Spring, Mr. Boatwright dedicated his career as an electrician, where his commitment to his profession was exemplified by 74 years of membership with the IBEW (International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers) Local 1579. Mr. Boatwright was a lifelong member of Ridge Spring Baptist Church. He also proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army, a testament to his spirit of service that extended far beyond his military duties. An active and engaged community member, he was a Mason, Boy Scout Leader, Little League Coach, and Jaycee. Often found volunteering as a fireman or contributing his time and insights to the Ridge Spring Town Council, his commitment to his community was unwavering. As an active member of the American Legion Post 133, Mr. Boatwright continued to support fellow veterans and uphold the values he held dear. In addition to his community life, Mr. Boatwright was a man of varied interests. He found great joy in camping, watching NASCAR, reading, and playing on his tablet- a modern hobby that kept him connected and entertained in his later years.

Surviving are his children, Bob Boatwright (Denise) of Ward, Debra Workman of Beech Island, and Dan Boatwright (Ronda) of Florida; four grandchildren, Candice Gilliland (Lance) of Heflin, Ala, William Boatwright of Ward, Curtis Workman (Shelly) of Bluffton, and Ashley Smith (James) of Bath; 11 great-grandchildren, Alex and Mason Gilliland, Savannah and Luke Boatwright, Tyler, Nathan, and Dallas Workman, Jesse, London, Gideon, and Tara Smith. Mr. Boatwright is also survived by his brother, Irvin Boatwright (Carolyn) of Ridge Spring. In addition to his parents, Mr. Boatwright was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 62 years, Mary Helen Harmon Boatwright; and his sister, Nancy Rish.

A service to celebrate the life of Mr. Boatwright will be held at 2 o'clock on Tuesday, October 22nd at Ridge Spring Baptist Church with the Rev. Brent Boatwright and Rev. Kyle Harmon officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service from 1 until 2 o'clock in the church sanctuary. Milton Shealy Funeral Home of Batesburg is assisting the family.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to his nurses and caregivers, Juanita Pickens, Susan Wilson, Joyce Howard, Dana Kneece, Cheri Kneece, Mary Dozier and Missy Craps.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Mr. Boatwright's memory to the Shriners Hospital for Children, P.O. Box 947765, Atlanta, GA 30394 or to Ridge Spring Baptist Church, P.O. Box 364, Ridge Spring, SC 29129.