David Ernest Straw

David Ernest Straw, 77, of Snapps Mill Rd. Spout Spring, Virginia passed away on October 8, 2010 at Virginia Baptist Hospital after a brief illness.  David was born May 27, 1933 in Campton, N.H.  David leaves behind his wife of 55 years Patricia Tompkins Straw.  In addition to his wife Patricia he is survived by two sons, Michael Straw of Lynchburg, VA and his wife Catherine, and son Stephen Straw of Spout Spring, VA and his wife Deborah.  David also leaves behind three grandchildren, Megan, Sarah Catherine and Matthew and his wife Kristin. He also leaves behind his mother in-law Barbara Matthews and husband John and his special cousin Carol Cray and husband Dick.  David was preceded in death by his parents Bernard and Dorothy Smith of Campton, N.H., his grandmother Agnes Plant, his brothers Bernard Smith Jr. and Paul Smith and his Aunt Edith Stephens and husband Roland. He is survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

David was a graduate of Plymouth High School in Plymouth N.H. and attended college at University of Wisconsin at Madison.  After graduation he served four years in the U.S. Air Force.  David worked most of his life in sales.  Together with his wife Patricia he owned and operated Blue Ridge Kennels in Lynchburg, VA for over 30 years.  He served a number of years as a 4-H parent and club advisor and also served a number of years as a DeMolay dad.  David enjoyed raising Irish Setters, English Cocker Spaniels and was an advid NASCAR fan.  He was a member of Monroe Lodge #301 A.F. & A.M. and a Mason for more than 40 years.  David was also a member of Appomattox Chapter #10 O.E.S.

A memorial service and Masonic service will be held on Tuesday, October 12, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. with a family visitation following at Tharp Funeral Home and Crematory, Lynchburg.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg, is assisting the family, 434-237-9424.