David Curtis Cavileer
David Curtis Cavileer, 79, of Cary, North Carolina passed peacefully the evening of June 1, 2026 mimicking “I love you” to his wife, Eleanor Stancill Cavileer and their daughter, Erin Cavileer McCullen, who were holding him close.
He was born in Akron, Ohio, March 28, 1947 to Curtis Monroe Cavileer and Justina Cottle Coe Cavileer.
David was a cherished husband of 51 years, a father, grandfather, brother and friend to many who will profoundly miss his presence.
David’s successful broadcasting career, spanning decades in several states and Puerto Rico, began while operating projection at Myers Theater in Ayden, NC on Saturdays beginning in 8th grade, followed by running a camera at WNCT, TV, Channel 9 in Greenville, NC during college. He retired from Raycom Media, returning to NC in 2013 to become a hands on “Poppy” to his granddaughter, Eva Tine McCullen, who carries the names of his Grandmother and Mother.
David loved music, playing, maintaining, collecting guitars; attending Blues Festivals, judging pit-cooked bar-b-que contests. He also enjoyed traveling, particularly to Japan, China, Banff, Calgary, the Grand Canyon and the vast American Southwest.
He had a passion for woodworking in his garage shops, creating furniture and other items his family enjoyed and treasures.
David's love for dogs began with Rinnie Noel, a miniature shepherd sidekick of ten years. He was incredibly proud of his present superstar, nine year old English Shepherd, Bonnie Blue. She brought him immense comfort, joy, and became his own special therapy dog throughout his illness.
David is survived by his beloved wife of 51 years, Eleanor Stancill Cavileer, who shared every step of his journey. The exceptional care and love she gave him throughout his illness was a beautiful testament to the life they built together.
He is also survived by his favorite daughter Erin Cavileer McCullen; Son-in-law, Kelly Emerson McCullen and granddaughter, Eva Tine McCullen of Cary.
Eva Tine and David won a Chili cooking contest together, performed magic tricks, built a leprechaun trap and birdhouse, shared ideas, laughs, movies and dreams. During the last weeks of his life, Eva Tine, along with her Mom, supported her “Poppy” with time, great tenderness and compassion, far beyond Eva's 15 years of age.
David is survived by a sister, Mikele Cavileer Jennings (John Jennings), of Scottsdale, AZ, many loving nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. He was preceded in death by a sister Carol Lynn Cavileer Malson.
No separate memorial service will be held for David. When both have passed, a joint memorial with joint spreading of ashes will occur for him and Eleanor.
Special thanks to Sue Bright Stancill and John Stancill of Greenville, who supported David and family emotionally and led him to Christ; To Linda Stancill Norville and Bill Norville of Farmville for emotional support; lovingly prepared meals, desserts, snacks and other kindnesses; and to Mikele Jennings, whose devotion to her brother brought home a sister's love in a big way when he and family particularly needed it.
The family expresses thanks also to the Transitions nurses and staff, and staff at Transitions Hospice House, for comforting, helping during his final days. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of David Cavileer to the following organizations:
Transitions Hospice House, to support their mission of providing dignity, comfort, and compassionate end-of-life care to patients and their families.
The English Shepherd Club, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving and protecting the loyal breed of dog he loved so much.