David Gerald Mcmaster

The son of Pauline and Wilbur McMaster of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, David is predeceased by both his parents and two brothers, Richard and James McMaster.

Surviving David are Barbara, their devoted son Mark (Donna) and three adoring grandchildren, Amanda, Emily and Michael of Menlo Park, CA. David’s and Barbara’s love and devotion to each other throughout their 63 years of marriage was an inspiration to the family and those whose lives they touched. David held his family close to his heart and was a visible inspiration to many. They will forever love him and appreciate his wisdom, guidance, and support.

A graduate of Central High School in Murfreesboro, TN, David went on to earn his B.Ch.E. degree from the Georgia Institute of Technology and his M.S. and Ph.D. in chemical engineering from The Institute of Paper Chemistry in Appleton, Wisconsin (renamed the Renewable Bioproducts Institute and relocated in Atlanta, GA). In 1996, he was inducted into Georgia Tech’s Academy of Distinguished Engineering Alumni.

In 1963, David began his military service with the U.S. Army Signal Corps. He was awarded the Army Commendation Medal for Meritorious Service.

David had a long and successful career in the paper industry and last served as President and Chief Operating Officer of Bowater Incorporated. Prior to joining Bowater in 1981, he had an 18-year career with Westvaco - working at their locations in Charleston, SC, Wickliffe, KY, and Luke, MD, where he was the General Manager for 7 years. In 1992, he was honored as a Fellow of the Technical Association of the Pulp and Paper Industry (TAPPI).

A dedicated member of First Baptist Church Greenville and their Seminar Sunday School Class, he served on the diaconate and was an active participant on a variety of church committees. He was a beloved and faithful member of the community whose leadership, generosity, and compassion for helping others will be greatly missed and long remembered.

David enjoyed traveling with Barbara and never missed celebrating a special occasion with his grandchildren, including their graduations from high school and college in 2021. He treasured his vacation time together with Barbara, especially as they explored every region of France and truly embraced the culture, people, and food while there. An avid sports enthusiast, golf was his passion, and he relished any time spent playing a round with his close friends.

Memorial Services will be held at First Baptist Church Greenville, October 20, beginning at 12pm. Services will be conducted by Dr. Jim Dant. Visitation will follow immediately after the service. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests donations be made to the Steeple Bell Fund of First Baptist Church, 847 Cleveland Street, Greenville, SC 29602.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mackeycenturydrive.com for the McMaster family.