David L. Weatherford, 88, of Columbia, SC, and formerly of Florence, SC, entered into rest on Sunday, April 26th, 2026.

Born in Florence, SC, he was a son of the late Sidney Grady Hyman and the late Mary Yopp Hyman. He was the oldest of six siblings. David was a graduate of McClenaghan High School. He attended Business Technical School in Florence following high School. He proudly served his country in the United States Army and the South Carolina Army National Guard. A man of deep and abiding faith, he loved the Lord and was a member of St. Andrews Baptist Church, where he served in various capacities during his younger years.

He was a successful businessman, working alongside his brother-in-law, Gene Parnell. He was a graphic designer, creating business forms for many clients, whom he came to know and care for deeply. He said he never worked a day because he loved his job. He was a dedicated and beloved Little League football coach and mentored young athletes at Seven Oaks Park.

Above all he was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend to many. He cherished his family and was a very kind man. He took great joy in attending his children's and grandchildren’s sporting events, concerts, plays, dance recitals, graduations, and any other event they were involved in, always offering his unwavering support.

David was an avid fan of Gamecock Athletics and the Atlanta Braves. He loved his country, and David never met a stranger. A testament to his strength and perseverance was the fact that he was a 22-year heart transplant survivor and grateful to his MUSC transplant team and especially Dr. Jack Crumbley.

Left to cherish his memory are his daughter, Connie W. Melia (Chris); son, David Todd Weatherford; grandchildren, Casey C. Melia (Ashley), Cameron D. Melia, Catie J. Melia; great-grandchildren, Sophie K. Melia, John C. Melia; sister, Betty Jane Kelly (Tommy); brothers, Robert Hyman (Rachel), Fred Hyman (Annelle); sister in law, Nancy P. Dutton (Raleigh); and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife, Loretta Parnell Weatherford; brothers, Edward Hyman, James Hyman; brother-in-law and business partner Elvin Eugene (Gene) Parnell (Carolyn).

A graveside service to honor his life will be held at 2:00 pm Sunday, May 3rd, 2026, at Byrd Cemetery, Timmonsville, SC. The directors of Layton-Anderson Funeral Home are caring for the family.

Memorials may be made to MUSC Heart and Vascular Center.