David Albert Dunning

David Albert Dunning, 77, died Monday, February 2, 2026, at Legacy Heights Nursing Center in Russellville, Arkansas. Following a private family committal in the Chapel of Light, cremation arrangements were entrusted to the J. Herman Humphrey Dignity Cremation Center under the direction of Humphrey Funeral Service. The family will plan a memorial gathering at a later date this summer, when his ashes will be spread over Mt. Magazine by a hang glider, according to his expressed wishes.

Dave was born December 4, 1948, in Honolulu, Hawaii, to Wilbur Sidney and Alberta Mae (Walker) Dunning. He was preceded in death by his parents, and a brother, Danny Dunning. He is survived by his sister, Sheri Snow (Don) of Baxter Springs, Kansas; and two nieces, Lyana Snow (Zohair) of Little Rock, Arkansas, and Dawn Reeser (Calvin) of Quapaw, Oklahoma, as well as four great nieces and one great nephew.

Dave served his country in the United States Navy, 1968 to 1971, during the Vietnam War era, serving on ships in the South Asia Sea. Rising to the rank of Electrician's Mate Petty Officer 3rd Class, he earned the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with One Bronze Star, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal with a 1960- Clasp. He received training in electrical maintenance, firefighting, and petty officer training with awarded recognition for expertise, leadership, and responsibility.

Following his military career, his love for rock music inspired him to collaborate with other musicians, forming the rock band Zachariah, for which he was the drummer. The band was active throughout the 70's, playing at venues all across the state. With his appreciation for art, he was an avid photographer, capturing life and nature all around him in beautiful and unique ways. He also sculpted pottery, and taught students the same at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR). Dave continued his work in maintenance in the housing industry. With that skill, he built a cabin from the ground up completely by himself, resting beautifully on the mountain ridge overlooking Mt Nebo in Yell County, where he enjoyed peace and tranquillity, only improved upon with visits from his family and friends. He was also a cat lover, pampering many feline friends throughout his life.

Perhaps Dave's most daring and thrilling sport was hang gliding. With friends of common passion, he leaped off the end of Mount Nebo, Mt. Magazine, and many other places around the country, catching the currents of the wind and sailing through the solitude of the peaceful sky. He was recognized as a superior performer of the sport and flew thousands of miles during his lifetime enjoying the ride that only birds would know. He worked hard and became a certified hang gliding instructor, teaching the sport he loved to countless others. He wrote many articles on the sport that were published in the Arkansas Democrat Gazette and other nationally published sports magazines along with some of his incredible photographs he took while in flight.

Dave made an indelible mark on his family and friends, burning memories into their hearts and minds that will last a lifetime. His kind demeanor, helpful skills, and zest for life will be missed by all those who were blessed to share in a life worthy of celebration.

Dave's internet obituary and online guestbook are available at humphreyfuneral.com.