DAVID JESS BRITTAIN

David Jess Brittain, 68, passed away on February 11, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Born in New York, New York, David grew up in the shadow of profound history. As a first generation American, he was shaped by the courage and resilience of his mother, Paula Szalatnay, a survivor of the Holocaust who arrived in the United States through Ellis Island after liberation from a German concentration camp. His family in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, remained active in the civil rights movement, hosting meetings in their restaurant and opening their home to leaders such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. These legacies of perseverance, justice, and faith became foundational to David's character.

David moved to Vero Beach, Florida, where he met the love of his life, Nancy Darnell, through his closest friend, Luther Darnell Jr. After graduating high school, David enlisted in the United States Air Force, beginning a distinguished career that took him and his growing family across the world - from Alaska to Maine, Florida to North Carolina, Germany to Texas, and finally back to Florida. He retired with honor as a Technical Sergeant, having served his country with unwavering dedication.

A proud patriot, David instilled in his children and grandchildren a deep respect for service, sacrifice, and love of country. All three of his sons followed his example by serving in the military, and five of his grandchildren have served or are currently serving as well - a living testament to the values he lived by.

David was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and man of faith. As a member and deacon of Brandon Baptist Tabernacle, he served his church community with humility and compassion. He found joy in the simple but profound moments of life - especially watching his grandchildren excel in soccer, football, track and field, and color guard where they carried forward his natural athletic talent.

David is survived by his beloved wife, Nancy Louise Brittain; his brothers in law Luther Milton Darnell and Steven Milton Darnell, and sister in law Sharon Rene Darnell; his sons Brian Joseph Brittain (Lauren), Kevin Scott Brittain (Krystal), and Timothy Jess Brittain (Ashlie). He leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Emily, Sarah, David, Joseph, Alyssa, Logan, Isabella, Andrew, Symon, and Judah.

If David could leave one final message, it would be this: spend more time with your family, enjoy simply being together, and cherish every moment.

His legacy lives on in the generations he shaped, the values he carried, and the love he gave so freely.

To send a flower arrangement in memory of DAVID JESS BRITTAIN, please click here to visit our sympathy store.