Obituaries – Their Stories Live On

Mr. David Jerome Pankey, a devoted brother, uncle, and friend, passed away on Tuesday, June 20, 2023, leaving behind cherished memories in the hearts of all who knew him.

David was born on June 2, 1963, in Beckley, WV, to the late Richard and Elzada Pankey. He dedicated his life to Christ at a young age, being baptized at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, later joining Heart of God Ministries, and re-baptizing in 2006 at Praise Temple, Wash, DC. After graduating from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1981, he relocated to Maryland briefly before following his heart to New York, where he spent the rest of his life. He worked at the New York City Police Department as a Custodial Assistant from 1985 to 2003 until he went out on disability.

David, later returned to Maryland for a few years, where he worked at a Youth Detention Center and found his faith in Christ once again. However, his heart always led him back to New York, where he returned and remained.

David had a zest for life and a love for laughter, dance, and spending quality time with his beloved family. He was always there to lend an ear, offer a helping hand, and provide a loving presence in their lives.

David, among his many passions, had a deep love for traveling to the Dominican Republic. He found solace in its weather and considered it a second home, frequently traveling back and forth. He created lasting memories and forged strong connections with friends he met during his visits.

David was the cherished uncle of his numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, whom he loved and adored. He had a unique ability to make each of them feel special and loved. Their lives were forever enriched by his presence, and his memory will forever be cherished in their hearts. Friends and acquaintances also mourn his loss and remember him as a dear friend.

David, his vibrant personality, caring nature, and genuine love, left an indelible mark on all those fortunate enough to have crossed paths with him.

David, in addition to his father and mother was preceded in death by four siblings, Wayne Pankey, Eugene Pankey, Betty (Jenkins) Fulton and Tressie (Grover) Hardy.

David leaves to cherish precious memories five brothers, Michael (Betty) Pankey, Irvin (Marceita) Pankey, Robert Lewis (Rosa) Pankey of MD, Russell Pankey of Winston Salem, NC and Kelvin Pankey of Beckley WV; five sisters, Norma Jean Braxton of Oak Hill, WV, Christy Pankey of DE, Christine Williams of Southfield, MI, Sharain Pankey and Candice Pankey, both of Beckley, WV

Family directed memorial service will be 11:00AM Saturday, July 15, 2023 at Heart of God Ministries 1703 S. Kanawha St. Beckley with Bishop Fred T. Simms D.D. officiating.

Friends may visit with the family one-hour prior.

Email condolences to ritchiejohnsonfuneralparlor@gmail.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Ritchie & Johnson Funeral Parlor, Beckley.