July 12, 2026, 85, Smithfield – David Earl “D. E.” Myers, 85, of Smithfield, NC, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 12, 2026 at his home. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and the proud patriarch of his family. His life was defined by hard work, determination and a deep commitment to building something meaningful for the generations who would follow him.
Born from humble beginnings, D. E. worked his way from having very little to becoming a successful and respected business owner. Through vision, grit and an entrepreneurial spirit, he built and operated several businesses, including Brogden Community Mart, Myers Gas, Myers Wholesale and other ventures over the years.
Beyond his work, D. E. found joy in the simple and meaningful parts of life. He loved watching baseball, hunting, fishing, collecting antiques, and spending time at the beach in Sneads Ferry, North Carolina. In his younger years, he enjoyed water skiing, and throughout his life he held a special love for farming and hunting the land at Buckleberry. That land brought him peace, pride and countless memories with family and friends.
D. E. also had a special place in his heart for his Labrador, Brownie, whose companionship brought him great happiness. Brownie could often be found riding in the back of D. E.’s truck or waiting faithfully for him at the convenience store, a familiar sight to those who knew them. Whether he was outdoors, working with his hands, talking business, or gathering with family, he carried with him a steading presence, a strong work ethic, and a love for the people and places that shaped his life.
He will be remembered as a man of strength, perseverance, and vision; a man who understood the value of hard work and the importance of family legacy. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren meant the world to him, and he took great pride in watching the generations after him grow, learn and carry forward the values he lived by. His impact will live on through the family he loved, the businesses he built, the land he cared for and the many lives he touched along the way.
D. E. was born in Johnston County on December 24, 1940 to the late William Roosevelt “Cooncie” Myers and Lillie Mae Williford Myers. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Peggy Ann Johnson Myers; brother, Billy Myers and daughter-in-law, Donna Benton Myers.
David is survived by sons, David Wayne Myers (Vicky), Durwood Earl Myers (Carrie), and Chad Everette Myers (Angie); 11 grandchildren, Lauren Stevens (Travis), Dustin Myers (Stephanie), Landon Myers (Ashley), Tara Strothers (Jonathan), Benton Myers (Hannah), Dylan Myers (Caroline), Maegan Myers (Steven), Keely Denning (Will), Courtney Hayes (Jackson), Brianna Myers, and Kirsten Myers; 22 great grandchildren; and sister, Joy Griffin.
The family will receive friends on Wednesday, July 15, 2026 at Casey Funeral Home and Cremations from 10:00 am until 12:00 pm.
The Funeral Service will be held in the chapel of Casey Funeral Home and Cremations at 12:00 pm on Wednesday, July 15, 2026 with Pastor Dennis Pollock officiating. The entombment will take place in Princeton Cemetery.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.caseyfh.com.
Although flowers are welcome, the family suggests contributions be made to Tee’s Chapel Free Will Baptist Church, 6439 Brogden Road, Smithfield, NC 27577.
Casey Funeral Home and Cremations is honored to serve the Myers Family.
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