David Hartsfield

David Hartsfield

David Hartsfield, known to his family simply as David, and affectionately to his friends as "Smiley" or "Sinai Dave", was born on July 8, 1987, in Bradenton, Florida, and passed away on May 17, 2026, in Sneads, Florida. He lived 38 years marked by love for his family, Christian faith, and a spirit that was both adventurous and creative. He will be remembered with affection by all who knew him.

David spent all of his life in Florida, where he built lasting connections with family and friends. He graduated from Sneads High School, and those who knew him best remember a man who carried himself with warmth, sincerity, and a quiet strength. He was the kind of person who brought a sense of steadiness to the people around him, and he valued the simple, meaningful moments of life. His presence was felt most deeply in the time he shared with those he loved.

Family was central to David’s life. He is survived by his sons, Drayden Hartsfield and Jace Hartsfield, who were among the greatest joys in his life. He is also survived by his mother, Michele Hartsfield, his greatest source of encouragement and support, and his father, Scott Hartsfield, who loved him dearly, as well as his brother Randy Hartsfield who adored him. His memory will be cherished by his grandmother, Gloria Crowley, as well as his grandfather, Aaron “Randy” Hartsfield. He is also survived by a large extended family who held a special place in his heart, including Aunt Beth Stagner and Uncle Keith Stagner, Aunt Debbie Ball and Uncle Robert Ball, Aunt Vickie LaBarr and Uncle Tim LaBarr, Uncle Kevin Hartsfield, Aunt Debbie Hartsfield, Uncle Donald “Dee” Hartsfield, Aunt Shawn Hartsfield, and Aunt Cece Hartsfield and a special "Aunt" Janice Mullinex-Sheldon. The bonds he shared with his family were strong and enduring, and those relationships were an important part of who he was. David had a multitude of cousins and nieces and nephews that he adored. David's list of friends was many and he loved them all and they loved him as well.

David had a deep appreciation for the outdoors, and fishing was one of the interests that brought him peace and enjoyment. He treasured most, his time fishing with his sons, Drayden and Jace, whether it was on the Apalachicola River, Lake Seminole or any creek, ditch or pond that they could find. He found value in time spent near the water, where he could reflect, relax, and enjoy the beauty of creation. He also treasured spending time with family, and those moments were among the most meaningful in his life. Whether gathered for a simple visit, a shared meal, or time spent making memories, David found happiness in being with the people closest to him. His love for family was evident in the way he showed up, cared, and remained connected.

Those who knew David will remember him as adventurous, creative, and loving. He approached life with a willingness to experience what lay ahead, and he carried a creative spirit that made him unique. His loving nature touched the lives of many, and his family and friends will remember his kindness and the genuine care he showed to others. David was able to make friends with anyone he encountered, from the youngest to the oldest, he never met a stranger. He leaves behind memories that will be held close and spoken of often in the years to come.

David was preceded in death by his Papa, maternal grandfather, Floyd "Mickey" Smith, paternal grandmother Iola Hartsfield and maternal grandfather Richard Crowley.

David will be remembered not only for the life he lived but also for the love he gave and the example he set for those around him.

Though his life ended far too soon, David’s memory will continue to live on in the hearts of his family and friends. He leaves behind a legacy of love, devotion, and treasured memories. The life he shared with others was one of meaning and connection, and he will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know him.

A funeral service celebrating the life of David will be held on Friday, May 22, 2026, beginning at 11:00 AM Central Time in the chapel of McAlpin Funeral Home. Interment will be in Pope Cemetery immediately following the funeral service. A time of visitation will be held on Thursday evening, May 21, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM Central Time at McAlpin Funeral Home.