David Churilla

1946 - 2025

David Churilla

December 25, 1946 - March 4, 2025

Elgin, South Carolina - David Noel Churilla left us on March 4, 2025, at the age of 78. He was born on Christmas Day, 1946, to Albert M. Churilla Sr. and Helen Smetana Churilla in Manchester, CT. David graduated from Manchester High School in 1964.He entered the U.S. Army on April 29, 1966.

During his basic training, he was selected for Officer Candidate School and became a helicopter pilot with the rank of Captain. He was deployed to Vietnam in January 1969, serving in the 155th Assault Helicopter Company. During his deployment he received the Air Medal for valorous actions, the Bronze Star, and the Cross of Gallantry with silver and bronze stars. He returned home and remained in the service, leaving the Army in 1973.

David is survived by his wife, Barbara Gordon, they enjoyed 55 wonderful years together. He is also survived by his brothers and sisters-in-law, Albert and Sherry Churilla, and Michael and Juanita Churilla, both of Venice, FL. He was preceded in death by his older brother, Kenneth Churilla, of San Jose, CA. He leaves behind a niece, Tracy, and her husband, Robert Bodvake, of Norfolk, VA; Michael Churilla Jr. and Leslie of California, MD; and Amy and Sean McKay of Mooresville, NC. He is also survived by five grandnieces and nephews: Henry and Vincent Churilla, Abigal Bodvake, and Shaelyn and Chase McKay.

David began his insurance career with the Hartford Insurance Company and finished it with Companion Life Insurance Company and Blue Shield in Columbia, SC. He and Barbara made their home in Elgin, SC.

After retiring, David became a firearms instructor, conducting numerous training sessions for various police departments. He also served as a Constable Police Officer and was awarded Officer of the Year. His colleagues remarked: "You could never say enough about Dave Churilla! He has been our Training Instructor for as long as I can remember and devoted much of his time trying to keep us safe and well-trained. An internationally known instructor (trained the Hong Kong Swat Team) he provided sound advice and procedures based on experience. He volunteered extensively to set up training and has contributed significantly to our District and Association. His importance to our Constable Program was immeasurable. Thank you, Dave; we appreciate all you have done."

He will be sorely missed. He was known for his great sense of humor, friendly demeanor, caring nature, and passion for training police officers.

Calling hours for Mr. David will be held on Thursday, March 13, 2025 from 12 to 2 p.m. at Shives Funeral Home, 7600 Trenholm Road Ext, Columbia, SC 29223. Burial will follow the visitation at 3 p.m. at Fort Jackson national Cemetery, 4170 Percival Road, Columbia, SC 29229.

In David's memory please help fight Alzheimer's by making a donation to the Alzheimer's Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Attention Donor Service S Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601.