James David Eakins, age 71, of Watha died Saturday, December 13, 2008 at his residence.

He was born November 21, 1937 in Pender County and was the son of the late Vernie Eakins and Lucille Welch Eakins Spender.

David is survived by his wife of 51 years, Myra Newkirk Eakins of the home; daughters, Toni N. Wells and her husband, John, of Burgaw, Carol Lynn Eakins of Watha and her fiance, Roy Horne, of Willard, and Cindy Leonard Brunetti and her husband, George, of Burgaw; son James David "Dave" Eakins, Jr. of Watha and his special friend, Joyce Oliphant of Raleigh; grandchildren, Megan Ives Mantooth and her husband, Chris, Brittney Leonard and her special friend, Bill Somers, Blair Leonard and Amber Wells; sister, JoAnn Cartwright and her husband, Jesse, of Watha; brother, Vernon R. Eakins and his wife, Beverly, of Burgaw; mother-in-law, Effie Newkirk; brother-in-law, Joe Newkirk and his wife, Pauline; and several nieces and nephews.

Mr. Eakins served his country proudly and honorably in the US Air Force. He was retired after working 28 years in the Nuclear Division of General Electric Company in Castle Hayne.

David loved his family dearly and showed his caring in his own quiet way. He always enjoyed being outdoors in God's beautiful world, hunting or just listening to the call of nature. Cherished memories of David will forever remain in our hearts.

The family will receive friends at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home on Tuesday from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m., one hour prior to the funeral service.

Funeral service will be 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, December 16, 2008 at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home Burgaw Chapel with The Rev. Ralph Evans and The Rev. Danny Justice officiating.

Burial will follow in Hopewell Presbyterian Church Cemetery with military honors accorded by the US Air Force Honor Guard.

Casketbearers were Roy Horne, Tony Godwin, Joey Newkirk, Farris Leonard, Cliff Tompkins and Mark Williamson.

Honorary bearers were Dr. Michael Rallis, Ken Brillport and Herbert McKoy.

Condolences may be sent to www.quinnmcgowen.com

Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Burgaw, NC.