David H. Cass Sr., age 82, of Decatur, Tennessee, passed away on Wednesday, October 14, 2026. A man of faith, integrity, and remarkable dedication, David lived a life defined by service, lifelong learning, spirited competition, and devotion to his family. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, educator, mentor, and friend, he leaves behind a legacy measured not only by his many accomplishments, but by the lives he influenced and the example he set.

A Life of Family and Devotion

For sixty years, David shared his life with his beloved wife, Linda Fields Cass. Together, they built a family rooted in love, commitment, and enduring values. He took great pride in his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, whose lives and memories will forever be enriched by his guidance, encouragement, and example.

David’s influence extended well beyond his home. Whether in the classroom, at church, on the athletic field, or among friends, he brought a genuine commitment to helping others learn, grow, and reach their potential.

A Career in Education and Mentorship

David devoted his professional life to education, serving as a teacher at Tyner Junior High and High Schools and as an assistant principal at Tyner Middle & High and East Lake Middle Schools. He understood that education involved more than academics; it meant developing character, encouraging perseverance, and helping young people recognize their capabilities.

As an educator and administrator, David helped shape generations of students. His influence reached beyond school walls through his work as a coach, Scout leader, and mentor. In each role, he encouraged discipline, responsibility, sportsmanship, and the value of doing one’s best.

A Man of Faith and Service

Faith was central to David’s life. He served as a deacon at Greens Lake Church of Christ and an elder at Meigs County Church of Christ, offering leadership and service to his congregations. His commitment reflected a belief that faith is demonstrated through action, responsibility, and care for others.

David approached these responsibilities with the same sense of purpose that characterized his professional and personal life, contributing his time and talents to the spiritual well-being of his church communities.

A Lifelong Competitor and Adventurer

David embraced life with energy, skill, and a fiercely competitive spirit. An accomplished athlete, coach, and instructor, he pursued a wide range of interests, including softball, sport fishing, hunting, table tennis, pickleball, and competitive shooting.

As a hunting and safety instructor, Scout leader, and Scoutmaster, he shared his knowledge while helping others develop confidence, discipline, and self-reliance. Coaching and mentoring came naturally to him, and he understood that the lessons learned through sport often extended far beyond the playing field.

His achievements in competitive shooting included two national championships in hunter pistol silhouette, a testament to his precision, patience, and determination.

David was also a pioneer in pickleball, serving as one of only six original Senior Olympic pickleball players in the nation. Known as Pickleball Dave in his Florida community, he eventually won a National Championship in singles and mixed doubles. His participation in the Senior Olympics reflected his enduring enthusiasm for athletics and his belief that the pursuit of new challenges and personal growth has no age limit.

Whether teaching a skill, coaching a team, competing for a championship, or introducing others to a new pursuit, David found fulfillment in the challenge itself and in sharing his passions with those around him.

A Lasting Legacy

David will be remembered as a man who valued faith, family, hard work, and personal responsibility. He believed in developing one’s abilities, honoring commitments, and investing in others. His legacy lives on in the students he taught, the young people he mentored, the congregations he served, the friends he made, and the family he cherished.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Margaret Cass; his son, Johnathan Cass; and his sister, Rebecca “Becky” Westbrook.

He is survived by his wife of sixty years, Linda Fields Cass; his children, David H. Cass Jr. (Angie), Krista M. Cass Brown (Eddie) and Carla Cass (Johnathan); his grandchildren, Camille (Chris), Caleb (Brooke), Catelyn, Emily (Eli), Nate (Shayli), Macy, Andrew, and Lyndi; and his great-grandchildren, Sloan, Haddie Mae, Riker, and Charlotte. He is also survived by his brothers, Randy Cass (Pheba), Donald Cass (Kathy), and Robert Cass (Jan), along with extended family and dear friends.

David’s life was distinguished by the breadth of his accomplishments, but his greatest legacy is found in the people who knew him and the values he passed on. His example serves as a reminder that a meaningful life is built through faithfulness to one’s beliefs, dedication to one’s responsibilities, and a willingness to share one’s gifts with others.

He leaves behind a family who loved him, a community made stronger by his service, and generations who will continue to benefit from his influence. Though he will be deeply missed, the lessons he taught and the example he lived will endure.

A life grounded in faith, enriched by service, energized by competition, and defined by devotion to family. David H. Cass Sr. will be remembered with deep respect, enduring gratitude, and abiding love.

Funeral Arrangements

The family will receive friends on Monday, October 19, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. in the Parlor of Decatur Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Big Springs Church of Christ. Interment will follow at Meigs County Memorial Gardens.

Decatur Funeral Home & Cremation Services is honored to serve the Cass family.