David Williams (Jr.) Rouse

David Williams Rouse Jr., lovingly known as “Pops” by his family, passed away peacefully surrounded by his close family on August 1, 2025, at the age of 72. A lifelong resident of Rose Hill, North Carolina, he was born there on June 7, 1953, to the late David and Winifred Rouse.

Pops grew up on the family farm where they raised chickens, tobacco, and corn - a place that shaped his quiet strength and tireless work ethic. His career began working for his father as an electrician. After, he worked for many years in a factory plant as an electrical technician and later became the owner of his own business, constructing and wiring houses. Always handy and resourceful, he could build or fix just about anything. He took pride in working with his hands and spent countless hours tinkering in his shop.

Some of his favorite days were spent fishing on a river bank or floundering on the sound. Pops loved animals and in his later years you would see him just driving around with his pup companion. He was a big fan of westerns: James Bond, Star Trek, the Beetles and the oldies. David was a man of few words, often keeping to himself, but his strong will and determined spirit left a lasting impression on those who knew and loved him. When he set his mind to something, he made it happen. When YouTube became popular it also became his best friend. His grandchildren are all to familiar with visiting him and watching him go through an instructional repair video of some sort. 

Although his last years on this earth were medically complex, Pops maintained an incredible will to live. If there was even a glimmer of hope or positivity, he would find it. He fought with strength and determination until the very end. His unwavering spirit and optimistic outlook in his later years will forever be remembered by his family and those who cared for him. 

He is preceded in death by his parents, David and Winifred Rouse. Left to cherish his memory are his son, Will Rouse and his sisters, Patricia McGarty and Treva Simmonsand his brother, Hugh Rouse. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Jessica Herrmann (husband, Nick), Olivia Rouse (husband, Errol), and Marisa Rouse (partner, Michael). He also leaves four great-grandchildren: Odin Rouse, Preston Herrmann, Connor Herrmann, and Zoey Manley.

David “Pops” Rouse will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, a contribution may be made to the ASPCA, American Cancer Society, or a non-profit organization of your choice. 

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 16, 2025 at Rockfish Presbyterian Church Cemetery. 

Family and friends are welcome to visit David's home on Thursday August 7th to pay respects. 

You may share your memories and send condolennces to the family by selecting our Tribute Wall above. 

Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home and Cremation service of Wallace, NC.

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