David Lu Webster

David Lu Webster was born on January 5, 1936 to William Murphy Webster Sr. and Ila Mae Watkins Webster at home in Dallas, Texas. He was the fourth of six children, including William Murphy Webster Jr., Nelda Rose Webster Higginbotham, Beverly Jean Webster, Fredna Elaine Webster, and Sue Ann Webster Webb Ramin. He left his home in Arlington, Texas for his new heavenly home on May 25, 2023 at the age of 87.

David was always full of life, smiles, big laughs, hugs, encouragement, pranks, jokes, and his faith in Jesus Christ. He is surely still the life of the party.

As reported by his mother, David didn’t like school when he was younger. To him, school was only a means to play football and other sports. She said that sometimes she would drop him off at school, only to find him home when she returned. Apparently, he would beat her home by running the entire way. He told her that Murphy and Nelda went to school, and that should be enough for the whole family.

He was always athletic, wanting to be just like his older brother Murphy, who also excelled at sports. It turns out that the coaches thought that he was too little to try out for football. Thus the nickname of Bones that stuck with him through his college playing career. His mother and father knew how much he wanted to play, and bought him his own uniform so that he could tryout. This began his highly decorated playing career. He also excelled at basketball and track. He even set some records in track that according to him, were still standing when he was an adult.

Alongside his closest friends, Vince Matthews, Babe Dreymala, and Bethea Brindley, he played for Stephen F. Austin High School in Houston until they graduated in 1955. The Austin Mustangs had quite the winning seasons with these boys and their talents. They were all recruited and signed to play for The University of Texas, being some of the top high school recruits in the state.

Being a student that didn’t like school, he lacked a science class for admission to Texas. He tried to go to summer school, but it was hard when everyone else was out having fun while he was stuck in class. Some of his buddies, Jack Terry and Donny Myers, invited him to come with them up to Arlington, TX to check out a junior college by the name of Arlington State College. He was promised that he could start playing right away, instead of sitting on the bench his freshman year. They also got a promise from Texas that his scholarship would be held for him after playing at ASC. As it turned out, he accumulated more accolades including winning the Junior College Rose Bowl in 1957 in Pasadena. He enjoyed playing for Coach Gilstrap, and found lifelong friends in Arlington. God had big plans for David in Arlington.

He met a young beauty from Lake Worth, TX at ASC, and he never regretted staying in Arlington. On April 15, 1957 he wed the love of his life, Iris Darlene Stout at First Baptist Church Arlington, where they became lifelong members. Together they built a life filled with faith, love, and many cherished memories. They celebrated their 66th Wedding Anniversary this year after being blessed with three children, four grand children, and two great grandchildren. David and Iris’s unwavering devotion to their family knew no bounds.

David brought light, laughter, and love to all who knew him. David's impact extended beyond his personal life. He began his business career working in sales, which led to the Manufactured Housing and Recreational Vehicle Industry. He worked for United Sales and eventually ended up at Kinro. He worked for Kinro for over 40 years. He worked his way from a salesman to the President and CEO of the nationwide company that produced windows and doors for the MH and RV Industry. In the realm of business, he proved to be a visionary, driven by determination, intelligence, and shrewdness. However, his success was not solely defined by material wealth but by the relationships he fostered and the lives he touched. He ran his company based on morals and his faith. Prayer was a large part of everyday business. David and Iris were able to travel all over the world through the business, and made many friends wherever they were. He was inducted into the MH/RV Hall of Fame before his retirement. As an employer, David treated his employees as an extended family, nurturing their growth and caring deeply for their well being. His generosity and compassion knew no bounds, leaving an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to work with him. His leadership was characterized by loyalty and dedication, which in turn inspired loyalty from those who stood beside him. Many of them stating that he encouraged them, influenced them, and became their mentor and friend.

He never wanted to be in the spotlight, but when he was given the opportunity it was hard to get him to stop talking and telling stories. Many of his stories came from his own pranks and competitive spirit. A competition could arise at any moment; even walking down the street could become a race. He never let anyone win; you had to earn the win. Hijinks! Just ask the numerous family and friends to tell their stories. Sneaking into someone’s home and crawling in their bed, or closet, redecorating their home when they were asleep, or the infamous bear hunt! Everyone, even the grandchildren, have numerous stories filled with laughter. His pranks were well known his entire life.

Beyond his accomplishments, David will be remembered for his infectious laughter, warm smiles, and his ability to brighten even the darkest of days. He had an unmatched sense of humor, effortlessly bringing joy to those around him.

He loved his family and friends as big as the state of Texas. His legacy will be carried forward by his children and grandchildren, who embody the values of integrity, kindness, and compassion he instilled in them.

David's faith played a central role in his life, driving him to make a positive difference in the lives of others. His acts of charity, often performed quietly and without seeking recognition, brought hope and solace to the less fortunate. His faith was not just a set of beliefs but a guiding force that fueled his purpose and inspired him to live a life of service.

As we bid farewell to David, we find solace in the knowledge that his memory will forever be etched in our hearts. His love, generosity, and unwavering faith will continue to inspire us to live with grace and compassion. Although he may no longer be with us in physical form, his spirit will guide us as we navigate life's journey, and knowing that we will one day see him again in heaven.

He is survived by his wife, Iris Darlene Stout Webster; Daughters: Stephanie Lynne Webster Todd, Valerie Anne Webster Naiser and husband Ron; Son David Keith Webster; Grand Children: Lauren Brittanie Todd Hall, and husband DeShane, Lyndon Webster Todd, and wife Laura Cate, Katie Lynne Naiser, and fiancé Alex Green, and Sara Elizabeth Naiser; Great Grand Children: Solomon James Hall, and Ruthie Arielle Hall; Sister: Sue Ann Webster Webb Ramin, and husband Jim; Sister In Law: Patsy Dean Reaux Webster; and numerous nephews, nieces, cousins, and other dear family members and close friends that are considered family.

Donations in his honor can be made to Mission Arlington.

Visitation will be Tuesday, May 30, 2023 from 6-8 pm at Moore Funeral Home at 4216 S Bowen Road, Arlington, TX 76016.

The Service will be on Wednesday, May 31, 2023 at First Baptist Church Arlington at 300 S. Center St., Arlington, TX 76010.