David Edward Easton, Jr.

GORHAM – David Edward Easton, Jr., 37, passed away on Tuesday, April 4, 2023 in Gorham.

David was born on January 3, 1986, to Teresa Ann and David Edward Easton Sr. in Murphysboro.

David is survived by his 10 year old son, Christian Landon Easton of North Carolina whom David loved very much; parents, Teresa and David Easton, Sr.; brothers Joshua Easton and wife Cynthia of Cobden Illinois. Zachary Easton and wife Cheyenne of Gorham Illinois. His nephews Jonathan Easton, Jacob Easton, Solomon Easton and his newly born niece Naomi Blythe Easton. David also leaves behind extended family members whom he loved very much and has fond memories of times together. David loved both of his brothers deeply.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandmother Naomi Easton and paternal grandfather Robert Easton and maternal grandmother Linda Diane King.

David graduated from Murphysboro High School in 2004 and was on the football and wrestling teams. David served his country in the U.S. Army from 2006 until 2011 in the 1- 325 82nd Airborne Division out of Fort Bragg, North Carolina. He earned numerous service medals to include: Army Achievement Medal (2nd Award) Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with two Campaign Stars. Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Korean Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Service Medal (AFSM) Humanitarian Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Army Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, Parachutist Badge, Army Expert Marksmanship Badge. David also served one full year in the Honor Guard under the United Nations command in Seoul, South Korea at the Yongsan Army Base. David loved serving his Country and regrets that he did not serve more time. 

David enjoyed fishing and hunting, reading his bible and listening to Bible teachings on his phone and going to the Gym. David loved his loyal service dog Juno and taking her on walks and playing with her at the dog park. David had a heart for the homeless. He could identify with their pain and despair. David would take Bibles to the homeless and share the word of God with them. He would take the homeless food, water and clothing and try to help with other needs. Occasionally he would let them come to his home to shower. David had true empathy for others. David would listen with his heart and was never quick to judge. He would always try to bring more positivity to others. He was always telling people about God and that he loved Jesus.

Funeral services for David will be 10:00am on Friday, April 14, 2023 at Meredith Funeral Home in Carbondale with Pastor Bruce Payne officiating. Visitation will be from 5:00 until 7:00pm on Thursday, April 13, 2023 at the funeral home. Burial will take place at 1:30pm on Monday, April 17, 2023 at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, Missouri with full military rites.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Meredith Funeral Home to help with funeral expenses and will be accepted at the funeral home.

Meredith Funeral Home in Carbondale is in charge of arrangements. To leave a story or memory of David, visit www.meredithfh.com