David Vail Whitehead, known to all who loved him as Dave or David by his family, passed away after a long and courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Born on December 14, 1956, in Huntington, New York, Dave spent his final years in Merritt Island, Florida, surrounded by the people who meant the most to him.

Dave was a man who faced life head on, with bravery, honesty, and an unwavering firmness in his convictions. For over forty years, he made his living as an independent trucker, a career that spoke to his hardworking nature and his love of the freedom the big truck brought him. He was the kind of man who never cut corners and never backed down, and those qualities earned him the deep respect of everyone who knew him.

When he wasn't behind the wheel, Dave could be found enjoying the things that made him happiest. He had a well-known love of cars, old and new, and there was nothing quite like the excitement he felt when buying a new one, though his beloved pickup truck always held a special place in his heart. He enjoyed camping, fishing, and exploring new places, sharing all those adventures with his wife and best friend.

Dave was a loving husband of thirty-one years to his wife, Tammy, who called him her hero, her best friend, and her partner. He was a devoted father to his sons, Nicholas Chavis (Lauren) and William Chavis Jr. (Kelly), and a proud Pop Pop to his grandchildren Owen, Mackenzie, Zachary, and Liam. He is also survived by his brother, Roy Whitehead (Mary); sister, Ruth Ann Rice (Donald); and Nieces and Nephew, Brittany (Carlos), Catherine (Nick) and Christopher (Kendall). He was preceded in death by his father, Vail Owen Whitehead; his mother, Catherine (Gerrity) Whitehead; and his brother, Steven Whitehead.

His courage during his final battle never wavered. When those around him were afraid they couldn't find the strength to keep going, Dave always knew what to say. His hearty laugh and warm smile will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

May he rest peacefully in the arms of the Lord, knowing how profoundly he was loved and how greatly he will be remembered.

Visitation at Island Cremations, Merritt Island Florida 9/9/26 1:00p-3p and 5:00p-7:00p.
Catholic Mass to follow at Devine Mercy on 9/10/26 at 11:00am.
A gathering of friends and family on 9/10/26 from 1:00p-4:00p at his home in Merritt Island.