It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of David Robert Rolston Junior, beloved husband, father, Pops, and esteemed professional, who died peacefully surrounded by family at the age of 83 on January 25, 2025.
Born in Staunton, Virginia on June 8, 1941, David graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Virginia and a Master’s Degree in Systems Engineering from Washington University in St. Louis. His professional career was marked by remarkable achievements and an unwavering dedication to his work. After earning his USAF Pilot Wings in December 1965 at Craig AFB, Alabama, he served in the United States Air Force flying fighters in Germany for four years. Following his active-duty service, he continued his commitment to aviation in the St. Louis Air National Guard for 22 years.
In addition to his distinguished military service, David worked for 22 years as a Chief Engineer in Flight Simulation and Training at McDonnell Douglas in St. Louis, MO. His leadership and expertise led him to roles with Lockheed Martin as Program Manager, and later as Vice President of Air Force Programs for NLX and Rockwell Collins. He retired from regular employment in 2008 and moved to Williamsburg, VA, where he continued to share his knowledge as a consultant for training systems businesses.
A man of many passions, David cherished time spent with his family, particularly on the water. Boating on the Mississippi and Missouri lakes and rivers during his years in St. Louis transitioned into exploring the Potomac River, Chesapeake Bay and its surrounding waters after moving to Virginia. His years of service as Commodore and in other roles at the National Potomac Yacht Club were some of his most cherished memories. Additionally, he had a deep love for pre-war Ford hot rod restorations.
In 1964, David married his beloved wife, Sandra Lee Soules, with whom he had three children: Robert, Bradley, and Deborah. After Sandra’s passing in 2005, he found love again and married Carol Gene Barker in December 2007, welcoming three daughters into his life: Chrissy, Brittany, and Jessie.
David is survived by his wife Carol; children, Robert, Bradley, Deborah, Chrissy, Brittany, Jessie; and four grandchildren, Kolter, Kyla, Nate, and Oliver. He will be remembered for his unwavering work ethic, his devotion to his family, his generosity, and his many contributions to the aviation and engineering fields.
A celebration of his life will be held at Bucktrout Funeral Home in Williamsburg, Virginia, 4124 Ironbound Rd. on Sunday, February 2, 2025, at 10:00 am, with reception to follow. Family will receive friends the night prior from 4:00pm-6:00pm at the funeral home.
David lived a life full of service, passion, and love, and his legacy will continue to inspire those who knew him. He will be dearly missed.
