David Emory Harkey

David Emory Harkey, 85, of Mount Pleasant, NC, passed away Friday, October 17, 2025, peacefully surrounded by family and friends. Born on May 14, 1940, in Cabarrus County, NC, to the late Lex Henry Harkey and Catherine Smith Harkey, David lived a full and blessed life dedicated to faith, family, and hard work.

The Harkey family will receive friends from 3-4pm, Monday, October 20, 2025 at Mt. Olive Lutheran Church Fellowship Hut; 9400 Gold Hill Rd., Mt. Pleasant, NC 28124, graveside service will follow in the church cemetery, officiated by Mt. Olive Lutheran Church's Vicar, Nina Allen.

He married his beloved wife, Judy Allen Burris Harkey in 1961 and together they shared over six decades of love, laughter, and devotion. David and Judy built a life centered on family and faith, creating a home that was always warm, welcoming, and joyful.

He is survived by his children, Cathy Lane Harkey Credle (Jon d. 2015), Emory Allen Harkey, and Brian David Harkey (Deana); and his cherished grandchildren, Kristin Lane Martin (Kyle), Spencer Lawson Credle (Ashley), and Nathan Alexander Harkey (Eve). He was blessed to be “Paw Paw” to his great-grandchildren, Nora Ann Credle, Baylee Lane Credle, and Brooks Alexander Martin, who brought endless light to his life.

David is also survived by his sister, Rachel Harkey Seaford (Ken), and was preceded in death by his brothers John Henry Harkey (Louise) and Paul Charles Harkey (Rose), and his sister Mary Jane Harkey Casper (Bob).

David had a lifelong passion for cars and drag racing, especially his prized ’57 Chevrolet, which he loved to race and tinker with. In his earlier years, some of his happiest days were spent with family and friends at their lake house on Badin Lake and simply being surrounded by the people he loved most. Throughout his life, David was known for his generous spirit, strong work ethic, and kind heart. He was a member of the NC Zoo hiking and walking clubs and enjoyed exploring the Greenway trails. In his younger years, he was an active member of the Pilot Club and a proud pilot himself, flying both a 150 Cessna and a 235 Piper Cherokee. “The 2nd greatest thrill known to man is flying, the 1st is landing.”

David worked full-time in heating and air, which eventually grew into a successful family business. He was admired by colleagues and customers alike for his integrity, skill, and willingness to lend a helping hand. He was never one to seek attention but was always quick to serve others. His quiet strength, warmth, and love for his family will be forever remembered by all who had the privilege to know him.

Memorials may be directed to Hospice and Palliative Care of Cabarrus County, 5003 Hospice Lane, Kannapolis, NC 28083 or the Mt. Pleasant Food Ministry, PO Box 134, Mt. Pleasant, NC 28124

David will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend—a true example of a life well lived and well loved.