David “Orange” Southards, 56, went to be with the Lord on September 14, 2011.  He was a native of Cleveland County and the son of Foy and Ann Southards of Lawndale.  He was the grandson of the late Clarence Lee and Johnnie Hoyle and Burgin Jasper and Mamie Southards.  He worked for Michelin in Spartanburg for 31 years.

Mr. Southards devoted much of his time helping the Children’s Homes in Cleveland County.  He drove the bus for Crest sports teams.  He loved ECU football, fishing, and coaching soccer, softball and baseball.  He went on several missionary trips to Honduras.  “Orange” loved his children and family and was a dedicated father and husband.

Along with his parents, Mr. Southards is survived by his loving wife of eight years, Angel Southards; four children, Andy Southards and wife Casey of Cliffside; Destiny Ledbetter of Shelby; Brittany Atkins of Shelby, Peyton Wayne Southards of Shelby; brother, Eddie Southards and wife Kathy of Sanford, NC; sister, Susan Canipe and husband Larry of Shelby; mother and father in law, Debbie and Wayne Donovan of Shelby; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life service will be held at 5:00pm on Saturday, September 17, 2011 at Lafayette Street United Methodist Church in Shelby with the Rev. Larry King and Rev. Don Allen officiating.  The family will receive friends immediately following the service in the church fellowship hall.

Memorials may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.

Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the family of Mr. Southards.

Guest Registry is available at www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com