David DeLaughter
1929-2026

The life of David Fredrick DeLaughter began September 15, 1929, as the second child of Albert and Roberta DeLaughter. Reverend DeLaughter’s education began in the public school system of Madison County and extended to multiple certifications in media. He was the Audio/ Visual Technician (Media Specialist) at North Florida Community College.

At an early age Reverend DeLaughter made a commitment to Christ as Lord, that served as the foundation for lifelong service to the church and Madison County community. Major milestones in a life of service include ordination as a deacon for Damascus Baptist Church, call to pastorate for New Canaan, Damascus and St. James Missionary Baptist Churches.

During each pastorate Reverend DeLaughter led respective congregations in significant growth offerings to the community as well as development of physical facilities. Across a collective ministry spanning more than 30 years, he emphasized Christian education, community service, youth development and active involvement in the political process as vehicles to improve the lives of citizens in Madison County and surrounding jurisdictions. As an example of exemplary leadership in the spiritual domain, Reverend DeLaughter mentored several aspiring ministers who are now serving as pastors or have served as pastors. Additionally, as President of the Madison County Ministers, Deacons and Laymen’s Training Union, he provided stellar modeling for current and aspiring pastors. The effect of his impactful leadership of the Union was on full display when this gathering of like-minded churches suspended term limit provisions in the by-laws and encouraged Reverend DeLaughter to lead as long as the Lord allowed.

His contributions to the Madison County community are not limited to the religious domain. As one of several founding members of the Madison County Recreation Association, he worked tirelessly to bring wholesome recreational opportunities to the youth of Madison County. He was also an energetic advocate for North Florida College.

Reverend DeLaughter met his future bride, Charlye Elizabeth McDonald at a school in the Crossroads community where her mother, Hannah McDonald was a dedicated teacher. Many years later, five children were born to this union and the family eventually expanded to include five more.

After his dedicated employment and distinguished ministerial careers, Reverend DeLaughter knew that it was time to rest from his labor. While he was confined at home, he continued to mentor and guide his family and members of the community. Then on Monday, May 4, 2026, he transitioned from this life to receive his eternal blessings. “Well done, my good and faithful servant … Enter the joy of the Master!”

The community, along with the DeLaughter family, is impacted by the loss of this faithful Man of God, who is celebrated as Heaven’s gain. Loved ones who will forever cherish his loving memories are his children: Daveta “Lucky”, Donald (Gloria), Rev. Charles (Linda), Michael (Jackie), Robin (Terry), Lewis (Faye) Moore, Jenet Tookes, and Rita Hawkins; sisters: Mary Frances Holloway and Laverne Lamb; daughter-in-love: Nancy Williams; loving grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren; sister-in-love: Betty DeLaughter; along with many other comforting relatives, caring church families, and uplifting Ministers of the Gospel.

Preceding Reverend David DeLaughter in death were his parents: Albert and Roberta DeLaughter; loving wife of fifty-one years: Charlye Elizabeth DeLaughter; daughter: Joanne Tookes; son: James “Red” Williams; son-in-love: David Wilson; siblings: Catherine Brown, Ezell Tookes, Rev. James DeLaughter, Martha Hervey, Dorthenia McLeod, and Naomi Anderson.

The descendants of Albert and Alberta DeLaughter honor the past and anticipate a bright future with noteworthy accomplishments that focus on the keystone principle of Reverend DeLaughter’s legacy: community service.