David R. Middleton

Davidray Russell Middleton, 93, of Pleasant Hill was born October 19, 1931, in Strasburg, the son of Elbert R. and G. Ferle (Hutchens) Middleton. He departed this life Saturday, June 21, 2025, at his home surrounded by love and family. David overcame a lot in his last year as he was diagnosed with cancer in January 2024 but was in remission just one year later in January 2025, but a recent heart attack led to his declining health.

David was a 1949 Pleasant Hill High School graduate.

On November 23, 1951, he was united in marriage to Norma J. Rouse at the Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church and to this union one daughter, Debra, was born. He was a steadfast caregiver for Norma through her last years of declining health; she preceded him in death on February 27, 1997.

David was a veteran of the United States Air Force where he started his career in Aviation Maintenance. He spent his entire career working for the U.S. Government and the U.S. Department of Defense and later for Martin-Marietta. While working he traveled extensively spending time in Southeast Asia, Italy, and Saudi Arabia, before returning home to the Richards-Gebaur Air Force Base. He was a member of the Air Force Sergeants Association. He was also very active in the Pleasant Hill community where he was member of the Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church, the Lions Club, the Pleasant Hill Cemetery Board, the downtown Historical Preservation Group, and the Historical Society. He enjoyed working in his yard, traveling, and spending time with his family.

David was also preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Debbie and Jim Good of Pleasant Hill; two grandchildren, Amy (and Matt) Henderson and Scott Good, all of Lee’s Summit; three great grandchildren, Mason Good, Aidan Best, and Elliott Henderson; one brother, Ron Middleton of Independence; former granddaughter-in-law, Anna Good of Lee’s Summit; other relatives and friends.

Visitation was held Thursday, June 26, 2025, at the funeral home.

Funeral services were held Friday, June 27, 2025, at the funeral home. Pastor James Stanfield-Myers officiated. Graveside military services and interment were in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery with full military honors by the United States Air Force and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #3118 Honor Guard. Casket bearers were Scott Good, Matt Henderson, Mason Good, Aidan Best, Elliott Henderson, David McGinnis, and Mike Beckner. Honorary casket bearer was Ron Middleton.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church or the KU Cancer Center and may be sent in care of the funeral home.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.StanleyEdenburn.com

Arrangements: Stanley-Edenburn Funeral Home, 203 N. Armstrong St., Pleasant Hill, Missouri 64080 (816) 540-5550