David Walton Coffey, 73, formerly of Lexington, died on Saturday, Jan. 25, 2020, at the Heritage Hall Nursing Home in Nassawadox after a lengthy illness.
David was born in Lexington on Aug. 14, 1946, the son of J. Francis and Hilah R. Coffey.
He is survived by his brother and sister-in-law, Daniel C. and Mary “Macy” B. Coffey of Cape Charles; two nephews, D. Brittigan and Talmadge M. Coffey of Montana; and a cousin, Caroline Y. and husband Rodney D. Ramsey of Marietta, Ga.
David graduated from Davidson College in 1967 with a double major in history and English. He later received a master’s degree in history from the University of North Carolina. He taught in the North Carolina public school system before returning to his hometown of Lexington in 1974. He retired from Virginia Military Institute in 2014 as an adjunct professor of American and Virginia history.
Outside of the classroom, David’s love of history was apparent by his involvement with the Rockbridge Historical Society and his service as a member of the Lexington Architectural Review Board. He was also active in the Lexington High School Alumni Inc.
David also enjoyed traveling and led many tours of England.
David was passionate about music and over his years in Lexington, served as organist for Jackson Memorial Hall, Trinity United Methodist Church and Manly Memorial Baptist Church.
David was a member of Grace Episcopal Church where a memorial service will be held Wednesday, Feb. 12, at 3 p.m. A reception will follow in the church parish hall.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Grace Episcopal Church Music Fund, 123 W. Washington St., Lexington, VA 24450; or the Rockbridge Historical Society, P.O. Box 1409, Lexington, VA 24450. N-G