David Nicholas Rountree

David Nicholas Rountree, a beloved and cherished man known for his kind, loving and generous heart left us on Tuesday, November 12, 2024 at the age of 83. Born on January 15, 1941 to the late Isaac Nicholas Rountree and Phoebe Elizabeth Summers Rountree. David is survived by his loving wife of over 50 years, Mary M Rountree; sons, David Nicholas "Nick" Rountree (Tawny) of St. Augustine, Brian Earle Rountree (Denise) of Acworth Ga. and Eric Lee Rountree (Andrea) of Alpharetta, Ga, along with his grandchildren Cayman, Terren, Elizabeth (Brian), Geoffrey (Savannah), Reagan and Reese. He was preceded in death by his brother, Pierre Eugene Shepherd. David was an avid animal lover, and leaves behind his two (Shih Tzu puppies) Riley and Emmy along with (kitty) Bunny. His death leaves behind an unfillable void in their lives yet they are comforted in their loving memories and knowledge they will see him again in heaven.
David was a patriot. He loved the United States of America. He proudly served in the United States Air Force during the Cold War from October 8, 1959 - July 7, 1964. As a United States Air Force veteran David felt it was a sacred honor and privilege to serve his country for the freedoms we enjoy today.
As a graduate in the field of Business Management, David pursued a career in Information Technology where he advanced within the IT management sector. David had a strong work ethic built on integrity and dedication to the field. He was known for his quiet strength and determination to get things done. His leadership, strategic insight and commitment to innovation earned respect from colleagues and clients. David was a mentor to many people throughout his working life. To this day, he has maintained lasting friendships from his time spent in the IT industry.
Beyond his commitment to his work ethic, he was foremost a devoted, loving husband and father. He found great joy and contentment being with his family. David cherished his beloved wife Mary. She was the light of his life and he loved to hear her beautiful voice sing songs of light and love. His three sons were a point of pride, not just for their accomplishments, but for the men they became. His grandchildren were always an integral part of David's life.
David was a man of many interests. He was a seeker of knowledge, both present and in the past. He enjoyed gathering genealogy information and documented the lives of family members. He also loved bringing people together around the table. David had a special way of making his family and friends feel especially loved through his enjoyment of making a memorable meal. Cooking, especially Cajun cooking, was a Rountree "Reel" Family fun event! His kitchen was always a place of laughter, delicious aromas, and togetherness. His signature dishes will forever hold a special place in the heart of his family and for generations yet to come. As a passionate outdoorsman, David had a deep appreciation for nature's beauty. Fishing was a great passion, and he loved nothing more than sharing moments on the water with his family and friends. His patience, wisdom and unwavering support made him a role model on and off the water.
David's Celebration of Life service will be conducted on Monday, November 18 at 5 PM in the Gateway Forest lawn Memorial Chapel with Steven Jones officiating. The family will see friends for a time of visitation beginning at 4 PM prior to the memorial service. In lieu of flowers, they ask that donations be made in David's name to Saint Jude Children's Research Hospital at 501 Saint Jude's place, Memphis, Tennessee, TN 38105 or at https:www.stjude.org. Arrangements are under the direction and care of GATEWAY-FOREST LAWN FUNERAL HOME, 386-752-1954. Please leave words of comfort for the family at www.gatewayforestlawn.com.