David Wayne Nealon Sr.

David Wayne Nealon, Sr., 64, of Rockwood, Tennessee, passed peacefully into the arms of our Lord on June 23, 2025. Born in Rockwood on December 14, 1960, David was a man whose life was marked by love, service, loyalty, and quiet strength. David is reunited in Heaven with his beloved father, Donald Ray Nealon, Sr., best friend: Keith Morrison; Children: Thomas Logan Cofer & Christopher Drew Cofer, and many other loved ones.

Married on June 1, 1993, David and Tina shared a deep and enduring bond built on unwavering support, laughter, encouragement, and true partnership. He was not only her husband but her greatest champion and her one true love.

Everyone who knew David loved and respected him. He had a rare gift: he made others feel seen, heard, and cared for. He had a gentle and calming presence, a fierce and loyal heart, and quick humor that could ease any burden. Even when he was hurting or tired, David was always willing to help others.

David honored and cared for his mother, Maymie Thomas Nealon, in a way that reflected the very best of what a man should be. He loved fiercely, protected what mattered to him, and made sure those around him felt safe and loved.

David had a passion for the open road—riding his Harley and driving his massive red truck brought him joy. He also loved to shoot pool with friends, cherishing the camaraderie and fun.

David was also a lifelong martial artist, earning black belts in three different forms of martial arts—a testament to his discipline, resilience, and warrior spirit. His mastery was never about ego; it was about respect, self-control, and inner strength.

A proud Army veteran, David served his country from 1984 to 1991, was a “Wardog,”and earned numerous decorations, medals, badges, and citations. His military service was just one of the many ways he demonstrated his strength, honor, and dedication to something greater than himself.

He was a proud and dedicated member of many fraternal and veterans' organizations, including:

• Rockwood Lodge No. 403, F. & A. M. (Free & Accepted Masons)
• Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)
• The Fraternal Order of Eagles
• Grand Chapter, Royal Arch Masons of Tennessee, Palmyra Chapter No. 218
• Chevalier Commandery No. 21, Knights Templar (York Rite)
• Grand Council, Cryptic Masons of Tennessee, Adoniram Council No. 114
• Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Valley of Knoxville
• Shriners International

David Wayne Nealon, Sr. was the very best of us—humble, kind, loyal, brave, and true. His absence leaves an ache beyond words, but his legacy lives on in the hearts of all who were lucky enough to know and love him.

He leaves behind his wife Tina and his Mother Maymie, as well as:

His Brother Donald Ray (Alice) Nealon, Jr and family

His Children: Kristy (Jason) Kelly, Christopher (Stacy) Stevens, William (Cassie) Teague, Jason (Amy) Cofer, Bobby (Heather) Cofer and David Wayne Nealon, Jr.

His Grandchildren:

Misty & Zachary Stevens, Kaitlin & Wyatt Kelly, Perry, Brilee & Aizlynn Cofer, Brianna Norton and Cyndel Nealon

Countless cousins & friends whose lives were forever better because they knew David.

The family will receive friends Friday, June 27, 2025 at Evans Mortuary from 12:00 pm to 1:30 pm with a service taking place after with Pastor Brian Hines officiating. Interment will take place at Oak Grove cemetery following the service. Evans Mortuary is honored to serve the family of Mr. David Wayne Nealon, Sr.