David Chad Bumgarner

David Chad Bumgarner made his second hole-in-one when he met with the Lord on January 10th, 2025. Born on December 4th, 1971, David lived 53 wonderful years before being taken peacefully. A lifelong resident of Banner Elk, NC. 

David is survived by the love of his life, Mary Henderson Bumgarner, and their two loving daughters, Millie Bumgarner Sluder (Matt) and Baker Julia Bumgarner. He was greeted at the gates of heaven by his parents, Betty Storie Bumgarner and Homer Ray Bumgarner. David was an “awesome” brother and golfing partner to his brother, Homer Chris Bumgarner (Jane). He was also the “cool” and humorous uncle to Carter Ellis Bumgarner (Cierra) and Cassie Bumgarner Vess (Dillon). 

David was an extraordinary husband, father, golfer, and friend. He had a rare gift for turning ordinary moments into magical memories. While he loved his wife and family the most, golf was his second love. He spent countless hours playing in Wednesday dogfights, entering every tournament possible, and joining any game that got him out of a day of work. His infectious smile and awesome warm hugs made everyone feel at home. David knew no stranger and found friends in everyone he met. 

When he wasn't on the golf course, his second home was Daniel Boone Campground, where he was always riding around in his golf cart, “just checking things out.” Beyond his immediate family, David was embraced by a wide community of “dudes and babes” whose love and support enriched his life. 

 Many may not believe, but David was the proud owner of Bumgarner Ground Maintenance, a business he built and nurtured for over 30 years. He treated his boys like family, treating them with care and humor. Matt, Trevor, and Finley - don’t worry, he will always be riding around, “checking on you.” 

In honor of David Bum, we invite all his “dudes” to wear your sharpest sports coat and raise a glass of red wine the next time you visit Stonewalls or dine in Banner Elk. A drop-in receiving of friends will be held on Friday, January 17th, from 5-7 p.m. at Mountain Glen Golf Course to share love, memories, and prayers with the family.   

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Brook Cheuvront Scholarship Foundation, a cause David and his family care deeply about. When donating money, there are multiple ways: Contribution can be made in person at United Community Bank in Newland, or mailed to the bank located at 200 Linville Street, Newland, NC 28657. Venmo donations can be sent to Venmo - @Steve-Cheuvront (If prompted use number 4720). Larger donations can be made through the Avery County Education Foundation (501c3) at https:www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/HVRHY8TWWBJ8W. 

Austin & Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Bumgarner family

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of David Chad Bumgarner, please visit our floral store.