David was born on October 18, 1944 in Fort Smith, Arkansas to Roy and Dorothy (Tanner) Brotherton. David graduated from Fort Smith Northside in 1963. After high school, he worked with his father in his refrigeration business. He then joined the Air National Guard in 1966 as a member of the 188th Tactical Fighter Group, where he served 32 years as a Crew Chief on fighter jets. David traveled to Turkey, Italy, Denmark, and Hawaii in support of the unit’s mission, retiring in 1999 as Master Sergeant. David’s greatest joy was his family with whom he loved spending time.
He is survived by his wife of almost 40 years, Lois (Cameron); daughter, Regina Beaupre of Cabot, Arkansas; son, Lance (Angela) Garner of Booneville, Arkansas; grandchildren Matthew Thompson, Stephanie (James) Black, Justin Garner, Savannah Beaupre, and Isabelle Beaupre; great-grandchildren Cassidy, Jace, and Finley Black; brother-in-law Alan (Becky) Cameron; sisters-in-law Donna Cameron and Jean Havener. He will forever be in their hearts and missed very much every day.
David was preceded in death by his father, Roy; mother, Dorothy; and brother, Roy Allen.
He was a member of Goddard Methodist Church in Fort Smith. David was known to be adventurous during his teenage years; just ask his three best friends: Bill Carmack, Jack Marts, and Ross Holland. He had a vivid memory and loved to tell his family of entertaining escapades from his past. He was an avid sports fan, especially of all things Arkansas Razorbacks. He spent his time watching old western movies and could name every actor on the screen. Perhaps most of all, David loved to tease his grandchildren with the song he embodied– “Hard to Be Humble.”
The family will honor David’s memory in a private Celebration of Life and Memorial Service.
In lieu of flowers the family ask that you make a donation to St. Judes or Shriners in honor of David.
“Oh, Lord, it’s hard to be humble
When you’re perfect in every way
I can’t wait to look in the mirror
‘Cause I get better lookin’ each day
To know me is to love me
I must be a hell of a man
Oh, Lord, it’s hard to be humble
But I’m doin’ the best that I can”
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