William David "Dave" DeHart

William David "Dave" DeHart-known to many as Pops, "Big Wave Dave," and Poppa Dave -of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, entered the presence of his loving and gracious Savior surrounded by the love of his family on Monday, March 30, 2026. He was born on June 19, 1953, in Princeton, West Virginia, to the late Robert Elwood "Bob" DeHart and Juanita Sue McMillan DeHart.

Dave was a proud graduate of St. Albans High School, Class of 1971, and West Virginia State College, Class of 1974. A lifelong Red Dragon and Yellow Jacket, he carried those identities with pride throughout his life. In 1971, he earned the rank of Eagle Scout, a distinction that reflected his character, leadership, and love for the outdoors-values he carried with him always.

His passion for scouting led him to Philmont Scout Ranch in Cimarron, New Mexico, first as a young Scout in 1968 and later as a devoted adult volunteer from 2013 through 2024. He also worked for the Boy Scouts after he graduated from college. He loved the Scouts deeply and believed in the impact it had on generations of young men.

A true Mountaineer at heart, Dave was a devoted West Virginia University fan and football season ticket holder during the Rich Rodriguez era. He lived and breathed gold and blue, bringing that same enthusiasm and loyalty into every part of his life.

Dave had an adventurous spirit and a love of travel. He visited all 50 states, explored more than 30 national parks, and traveled internationally to Israel, Canada, Mexico, and St. Maarten. Whether near or far, he embraced every journey with curiosity and joy.

He loved baseball and football, making a point to visit major league ballparks and college football stadiums across the country. But above all else, Dave loved his friends, family, and church. He was the life of every party, a man whose stories filled rooms and whose presence made every gathering better.

His faith in Jesus was the cornerstone of his life. He was a long time member of First Baptist Church of St. Albans where he served as a deacon, trustee, and the chair of the stewardship committee. With his move to Myrtle Beach, he was happy to join and become an active member at Surfside First Baptist Church. In his retirement he was also a proud member of the Rotary Club in St. Albans, WV.

Professionally, Dave was a lifelong salesman whose charisma and natural ability to connect with people made him exceptional in his field. He began his career in television advertising sales before transitioning to medical sales, where he retired as a top 5% anesthesia equipment salesman for GE Medical. As many would say, he could "sell sunshine in Arizona and snow in Alaska."

Dave is survived by his wife, Cheryl; his son Andrew (Meghan) of Amarillo, Texas; and his daughter Lori Jenkins (Caleb) of Louisville, Kentucky, his step-daughter Bryana Reilly (Brandon) of Woodbridge, VA, and step-son Bryan Branham (Camelia) of Grove City, OH. He was a proud and loving Pops to Reese "Pee-Wee" DeHart, Piper "Pipe" DeHart, Jael "Jae" Jenkins, Judson "Jud-Man" DeHart, Zephaniah "Zephyr" Jenkins, Brinley Reilly, Alaina Reilly, and Spencer Branham, each of whom brought him immense joy and pride.

He is also survived by his siblings: Louise St. Clair of Sissonville, WV; Kay Dallosta of Charleston, WV; Bob (Nancy) of Boone, NC; Lonnie (Barbara) of Winchester, VA; Jeffrey of Stockholm, Sweden; and Michael of St. Albans, WV.

Dave will be remembered for his boundless energy, his love for life, his devotion to family and friends, and his ability to make everyone feel like they belonged. His legacy lives on in the stories shared, the laughter he inspired, and the lives he touched.

A celebration of life will be held on June 13, 2026 in Myrtle Beach followed by one in West Virginia. More details will be provided at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Surfside First Baptist Church building fund.

Cremation Services Direct (843-651-1194) of Myrtle Beach is assisting the family with arrangements.