David Lee Bevington

David Lee Bevington, 76, passed away unexpectedly on October 20, 2026, just one day shy of his 77th birthday. Just before his passing, David was blessed with a prayer offered by Jan Bolton, while his wife, Denise, and daughter, Nicolle, remained by his side.

David was born on October 21, 1949, in Anthony, Kansas, to Glenn and Maxine Bevington. The eldest son of five children, David moved with his family to Amarillo, Texas, in 1962, a place he would proudly call home. He graduated from Palo Duro High School in 1968.

Shortly after graduation, David answered the call to serve his country, joining the United States Navy on October 14, 1968. During his four years of service, he worked as a jet mechanic, with assignments at Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam; Hawaii; and Naval Air Station Moffett Field in California. He served honorably until October 13, 1972. On May 4, 1973, he married Denise (Smith) Bevington, beginning a love story that would span more than 53 years. Through life’s joys and challenges, their love and devotion to one another never wavered. Through thick and thin, they stood by each other, building a lifetime of cherished memories and a love that endured until his final moments. One of David’s lifelong best friends, Ronny “Roundman” Murray, introduced him to Tres Carpenter while they were in high school. Later, David and Denise introduced Tres to David’s sister, Peggy. Tres became not only David’s brother-in-law but also a cherished friend.

David was a hardworking man who believed in doing things right and taking pride in a job well done. He spent more than 20 years driving trucks for Farmland, where he enjoyed the freedom of the open road. One of his proudest accomplishments was logging an incredible two million accident-free miles, a milestone he was always happy to share.

In his younger years, David had a love for adventure and the outdoors. Whether hunting, fishing, riding four-wheelers, or sand drag racing, he enjoyed the excitement of the moment and the company of those who shared his interests. His love of fishing and the great outdoors was something he passed down to his children and grandchildren, creating a shared passion that will continue through generations of his family. David was also often mistaken for legendary professional wrestler Terry Funk, a resemblance he thoroughly enjoyed. Sara Hamilton’s husband, Steve, always told David he looked like John Wayne, sparking a running joke they shared whenever they saw each other.

His niece, Cambra Carpenter, fondly recalls a fishing trip at the family ranch when David, sitting in a chair right in the water, hooked a fish and went to set the hook. When the fish got away, David went backward, chair and all, into the water. True to form, he was far more upset about losing the fish than getting soaked, leaving Cambra struggling to contain her laughter for the rest of the day.

David was known for his generosity, patience, strong work ethic, and ability to be the life of the party. He had a way of making ordinary gatherings memorable, and his lifelong friendships were a testament to the kind of man he was. He valued the people in his life and made time for them, whether it was Saturday coffee with family or routinely meeting friends for breakfast. When David was no longer able to join his friends for breakfast, Friday night phone calls with Michael “Drop” Waldrop became a cherished tradition. Their friendship went far beyond the usual bonds of friendship; though not related by blood, they considered each other brothers. Those conversations kept their connection strong and reflected the lifelong friendships David treasured. These traditions were filled with laughter, companionship, and the simple joy of staying connected. His absence will be deeply felt by everyone who had the pleasure of sharing those moments with him.

David is survived by his wife, Denise Bevington; his son, Lanny Bevington and wife Brandy; his daughter, Nicolle Bevington; and his grandchildren, Jadyn Brown and husband James, and Preston Keener. Also among those who survive him is Reginald Keener, Preston’s father. David is also survived by his siblings, Peggy Carpenter and husband Tres, Edwin “Tow Head” Bevington, and John Bevington. He leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and cherished friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Glenn and Maxine Bevington; his sister, Glennda March; his sister-in-law, Donna Bevington; his nephew, Larry Carpenter; his niece, Keri Nebgen; his great-nephew, Wyatt Nebgen; his parents-in-law, James and Edna Smith; his brother-in-law, Ronny Smith; and one of his lifelong best friends, Ronny “Roundman” Murray, whose friendship began in junior high school.

David lived a life defined by hard work, loyalty, generosity, and the simple joy of spending time with those he loved. While his passing leaves an emptiness that cannot be filled, the stories, laughter, and memories he leaves behind will continue to bring comfort to his family and friends.

He will be dearly missed, lovingly remembered, and forever have a place at the table.

Memorial service will be at 1:30 PM, Saturday, November 7, 2026 at Boxwell Brothers Ivy Chapel, 2800 Paramount. Arrangements are by Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors.