David Anthony Jackson, age 39, was born on May 10, 1987, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, to Valerie Jackson and Joseph B. Jackson. David gained his heavenly wings on August 1, 2026. Throughout his life, he called both Durham and Winston-Salem home and built lasting friendships and memories in both communities.

David graduated from Riverside High School and later attended the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. From an early age, David had a personality that was hard to forget. He never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with just about anyone. He was known for his sparkling personality, gift for storytelling, quick wit, and comedic timing. His smile could brighten your day, and his presence had a way of bringing people together.

David found his place in the food and beverage industry, where his natural ability to connect with people made him a familiar and beloved face throughout Durham and Winston-Salem. Many will remember him best as the lively host behind trivia nights across both cities, where his humor, personality, and gift of gab were always on full display.

Over the years, David worked at several Durham favorites, including Durham Food Hall, Heavenly Buffaloes, and Dain's Place, just to name a few. In his younger years, he also worked in the Duke University Athletic Program.

Outside of work, David had plenty of passions that were uniquely his own. He was a devoted Detroit Lions fan, loved comic books and gaming, and enjoyed podcasting. He co-hosted the Retrograded podcast with his dear friend Rose, giving him another outlet for the humor, opinions, and personality that came so naturally to him. And every now and then, David could even be found doing a little ghost hunting, just one of the many interests that made him uniquely David.

More than anything, David will be remembered for his joyous spirit, his willingness to help others, and the laughter and memories he left behind. He was a son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, friend, coworker, and familiar face to so many. His absence leaves an enormous space in the lives of those who knew and loved him, but the stories, laughter, and memories he gave us will remain.

David was preceded in death by his grandparents, General and Herlenia Jackson and James and Cordelia Taylor; his aunts and uncles, General Jackson Jr., Patrick Taylor, Carlton Taylor, Katherine Taylor, Sonjia Taylor, and Dinah Taylor.

David leaves to cherish his memory his parents, Valerie Jackson and Joseph B. Jackson; his sister, Joi Jackson of Durham, North Carolina; his brother, Damamnian Terry of Winston-Salem, North Carolina; his nephews, Isaiah Jackson and Damamnian Terry Jr.; along with a host of loving aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, and countless friends.

The Jackson family would also like to extend a special thank you to David's friends who rallied around our family during this incredibly difficult time, especially Rose, Kristen, Candace, and Becky. Your love for David, your friendship, and your support have meant more to our family than words can express.

David lived a life filled with laughter, conversation, friendship, and unforgettable moments. To know David was to have a story about David, and we know those stories will continue to be told for many years to come.

David's family will greet friends beginning at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, August 18, 2026 in the chapel of Clark S. Brown & Sons Funeral Home. A memorial service will follow at 2:30 PM with fellowship after the service.