David N. Word

David Norman Word, 74, of Destin, Florida, passed from this life to his eternal home on Wednesday, December 7, 2022.

Born November 21, 1948, in Dothan, Alabama to Norman E. Word and Cleoris K. Word, he spent his childhood there, graduated from Auburn University, and married Rebecca (Becky) Skeen on July 14, 1973. David spent his career in various aspects of the HVAC business, both in Dothan and subsequently in Destin, where he and Becky moved in 1984.

He was never happier than when he was in a boat, on a river, with a Bream Buster in his hand. In addition to fishing, he had a lifelong love of music – all kinds – and played a variety of instruments. Other interests were classic cars and Auburn football. He was the man to call if you needed help with plumbing, electrical, HVAC, auto repairs, or just wanted to hear a good story. Many boys and young men were entertained and advised by “Pops” in the carport at the Word house over the years! A couple of comments we’ve seen lately: “Pops was a legend” and “Many times Pops advised me with good sense like my own father”. David loved his role as bonus dad/advisor and was always available for our boys and their friends.

A long-time member of First Baptist Church in Ft. Walton Beach, Florida, he served on the Building & Grounds committee, sang bass in the choir, and taught Royal Ambassadors for several years.

He is survived by Becky, his wife of 49 years, Destin, Florida, sons John David (Bekka) Word of Sahuarita, Arizona, and Charles Norman (Lauryn) Word of Destin, Florida, grandson Sawyer John Word of Sahuarita, Arizona, sister Jeanne (Denny) Hibler of Destin, Florida, mother in law Beverly Skeen Freeman of Destin, Florida, sisters in law Julie McAllister of Destin, Florida, and Lee (Gary) Hyde of Athens, Alabama, 8 nieces and nephews, numerous cousins, and many friends.

According to his wishes, David will be cremated. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

The family would like to thank the staff at Fresenius Kidney Dialysis Center in Niceville for their excellent care and help over the last 4 years. We also thank Emerald Coast Hospice for their assistance.

If you wish to make a charitable donation in David’s name, please consider the National Kidney Foundation (www.kidney.org).

To share memories, express condolences, and sign the guestbook please visit www.emeraldcoastfuneralhome.com.

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