David William Balsley

David William Balsley, 87 of Carolina Shores, South Carolina, formerly of Linwood and later Mays Landing, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2026, one day after his 87th birthday. David was born on February 19, 1939, in Atlantic City.

The son of the late Kathryn Fry Balsley and G. David Balsley, David grew up in Linwood, New Jersey, creating a childhood filled with adventure and mischief with his late brother Donald G. Balsley at their family home in Linwood.

David is survived by his beloved wife Maria Weeks Balsley, his daughter Teri J. (Balsley) Weeks and her husband Eric, daughter Dana L. (Balsley) Loefflad and her husband Joseph, and son Mark D. Balsley. He also leaves his memories with grandchildren Erica K. Weeks, Nevin W. Weeks, David J. Loefflad, and his wife, Brielle, and Jack T. Loefflad. David was also blessed to have two great-granddaughters, Elodie R. Loefflad and Stevie T. Loefflad. Also mourning his loss are his extended family, Daniel Weeks and his wife, Susan, Chris Weeks and his wife, Lisa, Rick Weeks and step-grandchildren Eric, Natalia (Rikki), Noah, Lynne, Geraldo, and Allie.

David attended Ocean City High School and graduated in the class of 1957, where he earned the nickname The Phantom. Upon graduation, David proudly enlisted in the Air Force before returning home to join his father in the family business, G. David Balsley Real Estate. Working alongside his father, he helped to expand the business, contributing to the selling, building, and design of residential and commercial real estate. His vision, work ethic, and steady leadership helped shape many of the homes and communities still thriving in Linwood today.

Deeply connected to the natural world, David found his greatest joy on the water. He was a licensed boat captain and cherished his time fishing in the bays and ocean off Somers Point and Atlantic City, especially loving this time with his children and grandchildren. Many fond family memories were on one of the many DEE BEE boats, where his love of boating and fishing was passed on to his children. David was also an avid hunter; he helped to design duck sneak box boats, which were manufactured by his good friend Ray Higbee and sold all over the East Coast. As a youth, David was also involved in the 4H Club, raising guinea hens and horses, once trying to ride one of those horses through the Belhaven School. Later, he bred and trained prized Labrador Retrievers.

David's strength was quiet, his passions deep and his presence constant. David will be remembered for his creative spirit and his love of the sea. He leaves his legacy both in the hearts of his loved ones and the communities he helped to build.

At his request, funeral services will be private at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you spend time with your loved ones, sharing a memory or two over a nice glass of scotch.

Mr. Balsley is entrusted to Kelvin F. Lewis, the funeral director, and the Lewis Crematory & Funeral Home staff of Myrtle Beach, SC. (843) 294-0011.