David Wayne Hammitt

David Wayne Hammitt, (66), of Kingsport, left this world brighter, kinder, and a little more colorful before he entered his eternal rest on Thursday, November 7, 2024. 

David’s career began with White Floral in the early 1970s, where he developed a passion for floral design. In 1994, he made a career shift, dedicating 23 years to Wal-Mart Super Center, where he created countless friendships with his warm smile and desire to help others. In the last five years, he followed his passion for bringing beauty into people’s lives through David’s Designs, his custom floral arrangement business. While most customers did not realize he was colorblind, his eye for vibrant, joyful arrangements was undeniable. 

Known for his big heart, quick wit, strong work ethic, and love of Dobyns-Bennett football, and the color blue, David’s life was one well-lived and well-loved. His gift for making others feel special will be cherished by all who knew him.

 A member of Promise Ministries Church, David’s faith was his foundation in life. With unwavering love and support from his family, friends, and church, he continued to face each day with a sense of hope and strength. A man with a big heart for those in need, David gave back to his community through Shepherd’s Watch­ which helps provide shelter, food, and access to vital services for our homeless neighbors. 

David’s family would like to express their deepest gratitude to all of the medical professionals who have cared for him in recent years, including Dr. John Kliesch, the teams at Ballad Health Cancer Center and University of Tennessee Medical Center. Special thanks to Keith Jones and Betty Moore of the Ambulance Service of Bristol for their patience and kindness, and the Gentiva Hospice team for their support and comfort in his final days. Each of you made a difference, and our family is forever grateful for the compassion and dignity you extended to David.

David was preceded in death by his mother, Marjorie (Margie) Lewis and niece, Asia Foster. 

David is survived by his wife, Renee (Wells) Hammitt; daughters, Amber Hammitt Williams and Lindsay Hammitt Seaver (Mickey); son, Rhyne Hammitt (Kelley); grandchildren, Karsyn Williams, Blake Hammitt, Tanner Williams, Scottie Hammitt; and great-grandson, Aspen Salyers. Each of them held a special place in his heart. He is also survived by brothers, Jerry Hammitt (Colleen) and Will Hammitt; sister, Judy Housewright (Rick), and many extended family members. His relationship with niece, Starr Manis, her husband, Eddie, and their son, Will, was especially cherished.

The family will receive friends from 5-7 p.m. on Tuesday, November 12, 2024 at Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Home in Kingsport. A service will follow immediately after with Esta Gilley and Pastor Rob Hoover officiating. 

A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, November 13, 2024 at 11 a.m. at Hamlett-Dobson Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Promise Ministries Church at 2244 Hall Street to continue his legacy of helping those in need and honoring David’s generous spirit and commitment to lifting others. His light will live on in every act of kindness, every burst of laughter, and every hint of blue that graces our world. 

Family and friends are encouraged to wear their favorite shade of blue in honor of David.