David Wayne Alderman

David Wayne Alderman, 64, of Ravenswood, WV passed away on May 2, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, love, and legendary one-liners. A beloved husband, father, son, son-in-law, brother, uncle, cousin, in-law, and friend, David touched the lives of all who knew him — not just with his kindness, but with an unforgettable sense of humor and a deep appreciation for life.

David made it his mission in life to lift others up — whether by teaching, cheering, encouraging, or just cracking a perfectly timed joke when you needed it most (and sometimes when you didn’t). David took pride in helping others grow. He shared knowledge not to show how much he knew, but to make your life a little brighter, better, or easier. He was an encourager by nature and an educator by instinct, with a talent for making people laugh in the process.

David is preceded in death by his mother, Kathryn Fesler; grandmother, Esta Parsons; grandfather Lafayette Parsons; and father-in-law, Alvie Thomas “Tom” Gibson.

David is survived by his wife, Lavonda; daughters Crystal (Tom) Alderman-Farrell; Alicia (Mike) Roman; son Isaac (Jordan) Waugh; brother, Kevin Alderman; sister, Kathy Alderman; father, Jerry Alderman; mother-in-law, Margaret Nation; many cousins, friends, and family members; and an impressively large collection of dad jokes, conspiracy theories, hats with questionable sayings, and a legacy of jokes that many will never stop quoting.

David lived a life the way he told his best stories: with boldness, impeccable timing, unfiltered honesty, and a flair for the unexpected. He had a soft spot for the weird and wonderful, especially if it involved unexplained footprints in the woods.

To honor his memory, David’s family asks that you remember the quote he lived by and shared often, drawing inspiration from it each day:

“On the Plains of Hesitation bleach the bones of countless millions who, at the Dawn of Victory, sat down to wait - and waiting, died.”

Don’t wait. Chase the adventure. Keep the laughter loud, the adventures weird, and the Bigfoot sightings reported. He is real - just camera shy.

Per David’s request, there will be no funeral services. Following cremation, a celebration of life will be held at Chief Logan State Park on Friday, May 9th. Memorial services will be held at Shelter 5 beginning at 1PM. All who knew him, loved him, or would just like to swap a story and share a laugh are warmly welcome.