A loving father, husband, brother, and friend, David Edward Wilson, passed away on December 29, 2016 at the age of 47. His heroic and inspirational life was a testament to his love for God, his family, and his community. He was a Real Estate Broker and musician whose battle with ALS, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or Lou Gehrig's disease, inspired a community to "Pass the Gift" of kindness to others.

Before his ALS diagnosis, Wilson was a local real estate broker, popular local musician, community leader, and active member of Lafayette Street UMC. He served on several boards including: the Cleveland County Planning Board, Cleveland County Board of Realtors, Child Care Connection, and in various church offices. He was named Realtor of the Year in both 2002 and 2013. David received the 2014 Heritage Bridge Award and the Carl Carpenter Gold Heart Award.

His determination to fight the challenges of his disease and to not be defined by this illness was an inspiration to everyone around him. He continually fought to give to others by establishing the "Pass the Gift" fundraiser to assist others with devastating diseases. Throughout Wilson's struggle with ALS, the Cleveland County community rallied behind him.

David was born March 6, 1969, in Shelby, NC to Sam Wilson and Lynn Lackey. He graduated from Shelby High School in 1987 and from Appalachian State University in 1992 with a degree in Urban and Regional Planning and Real Estate. David was a Real Estate Broker and Office Manager for Wilson Real Estate in Shelby.

He is survived by his loving wife of 21 years, Sharon Smith Wilson and daughters Grace Elizabeth Wilson and Kathryn "Katie" Lynn Wilson. David is also survived by his parents: mother, Theresa Lynn Greene Lackey and stepfather, Don Lackey; father, Samuel Howard Wilson and stepmother, Myra Davis Wilson; grandmother, Hazel Bolin Wilson; brother, Jimmy Wilson and wife Melissa Wilson; step-sister, Carmen Bridges and husband, Robbie Bridges; step-brother, Chuck Lackey and wife, Pam Lackey; father and mother-in-law, Iverson and Libby Smith; brother and sister-in-law, Phil and Sandy Champion; nieces and nephews: Alex Wilson, Lee Wilson, Jenna Wilson, Kristen Gallucci, Milo Gallucci, Justin Enloe, Lucas Blanton, Will Champion, Philip Champion, Luke Lackey and Jordan Lackey. David was preceded in death by his grandfather, Edward Wilson and great aunt, Laura Faye Wilson, and grandparents, Mac and Evelyn Greene, and cousins Stephen Williams and Joe Harris.

We would especially like to thank all the nurses and staff of Bayada, especially: Angie Hill, Tracy Short, Kim Griffin, and Kelly Bivins, and Hospice of Cleveland County, especially: Joanie Mabry, Sheree Wilson, and Becky Love for the love and amazing care for David during his battle with ALS. The family cannot say "Thank You" enough to everyone who has supported us and David throughout the years.

Funeral service will be held on Monday, January 2, 2017 at 2:30 pm at Lafayette Street United Methodist Church with Rev. Arthur Holland officiating. Burial will follow at Zion Baptist Church. The family will receive friends on Sunday, January 1, 2017 from 3:00 pm until 5:00 pm at Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home and Crematory.

Memorials can be made to; Lafayette Street United Methodist Church, 1420 S. Lafayette Street, Shelby NC 28152 or Hospice Cleveland County, 951 Wendover Heights Drive, Shelby NC 28150 or Pass the Gift Fundraiser, PO Box 703, Shelby NC 28151.

Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the family of Mr. Wilson.

Guest Registry is available at www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com