David Austin McCourt Death and Obituary – David Austin McCourt, a devoted husband, father, veteran, and cherished friend, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, January 24, 2026, in Little Rock, Arkansas, following a two-car accident while traveling to Alabama for storm cleanup work. His death is a profound loss to his family, friends, and the wider community, reflecting a life defined by service, courage, and selflessness.
Born on February 7, 1989, in Buckhannon, West Virginia, David grew up in Webster County, where he attended local schools and actively participated in athletics and extracurricular activities. A standout on the Highlander Football team, he competed in the state playoffs twice and served as Team Captain during his senior year. His leadership and determination on the field were early indications of the character that would define his life.
Following high school, David attended Fairmont State College for one year before enlisting in the United States Navy. Over a six-year career, he served in the Special Forces S-E-R-E Division and was deployed twice to both Afghanistan and Iraq. His military service took him to nearly 30 countries, where he forged lifelong friendships and earned the admiration and respect of those he encountered. David’s time in the Navy strengthened his resilience and broadened his worldview, leaving a lasting mark on all who knew him.
During his service, David met Diane Taylor, who would become his loving wife, and her son Aden. Their relationship endured long-distance challenges through his deployments and grew into a family with two additional sons, Myles Austin and Chase William. David’s dedication to family was central to his life, and he nurtured relationships with warmth, generosity, and loyalty. Known for his infectious personality, he was often said to have “hundreds of best friends,” a testament to his remarkable ability to connect with others.
After leaving the military, David trained as a lineman, pursuing a career that combined his work ethic with his desire to help others. He approached every task with professionalism and care, earning respect in both his career and personal life.
David was preceded in death by his father, David Austin McCourt (1993), fraternal grandparents Nada June and Golden James McCourt, and maternal grandfather Nelson E. Davis, Sr. He is survived by his wife Diane, his sons Aden, Myles, and Chase, his grandmother Carroll Ann Davis, siblings Ashley (and husband Andy Ray), Nada June (and husband Ryan Gilles), Matt (and wife Jess), and Billy Green. He is also survived by his cousin Kenny Hall, his honorary parents Mike and Connie Robinson and their children Meganne and Quinten Robinson, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 3:00 PM at Dodd & Reed Funeral Home in Webster Springs, with Pastor Marty Cowger officiating. Interment will follow at Harrison Cochran Cemetery. David Austin McCourt will be remembered for his unwavering love, selfless service, and the joy and warmth he brought into the lives of all who knew him.
