Early Tuesday morning, April 15,2025, David entered into his heavenly home where he was greeted by open arms of The Lord and his family.  He was born January 8, 1947, to the late Paul Ray Setzer and Elizabeth “Lib” Martin Setzer.  David was known to his grandchildren as Papaw Doodle, from which he gained the name from calling his granddaughter Doodlebug.  It’s a name he wore proudly.  He was an avid outdoorsman who thoroughly enjoyed hunting, fishing and target practice. David was a member of McKendree Methodist Church in Lincolnton. He was often seen driving his 1978 Chevy Scottsdale truck.  He loved watching his grandchildren in all of their many sports and activities.

His funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at McKendree Methodist Church with Rev. Greg Richard and Rev. Randy Powell officiating.  Burial will follow in the church cemetery.  The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 1:45 p.m. prior to the service in the fellowship hall. 

David enlisted in the Lincolnton National Guard in the late 1960’s. He worked in his younger days as a Game Warden in the mountains of North Carolina (from which we heard many stories!).  He was a talented carpenter who could build anything. He then retired from the North Carolina Division of Prisons in 2011 after 20 years of service. 

David was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Elizabeth “Lib” Setzer; sister, Patricia Setzer Lynch; his maternal grandparents, JJ and Addie Martin; his paternal grandparents, John F. and Nancy Bradley Setzer; and his beloved pets, Mandee and Buttons.

He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Shirley Ramsey Setzer; daughter, Ashley M. Springs & husband, Tanner; two steps-sons, Chris Eurey and wife Shannon, and Joe Eurey; two grandchildren, who he loved so dearly, Kinsley Springs and Kaison Springs; two bonus grandchildren, Cassie Keever and Christopher White; one sister, Carolyn Setzer Kimbrell and husband, Perry; three nieces, Kristin Isenhour (BI), Candace Weaver (Jason), and Caren Potter (Joshua); great-nephew, Joshua Weaver; great-niece Carrington Potter; and his pet companion and sidekick, Luna.

David will be missed by so many.  He was a person who knew many people.  His legacy, stories and memories will live on in the hearts of all his family.  Until I see you again Daddy, I will love you forever, your daughter, Ashley.

Memorials may be made to McKendree Methodist Church, PO Box 426, Lincolnton, NC  28093.

Warlick Funeral Home is serving the Setzer family.