David Lee Salyer

David Lee Salyer, 74, passed away on February 12, 2022 in Richmond, VA, after a long illness. Born on July 17, 1947, in Bedford, VA, he was the son of the late William H. Salyer and Mary Jane (née Saunders). David graduated from Liberty High School in 1965. Prior to his graduation from Liberty High School, he attended Montvale High School from 1961 to 1964. He was an active student who contributed to his school’s rich history. He was a member of the school’s baseball and basketball programs and he also served as President of the school’s Safe-T-Club, was a member of Keep Virginia Green Crew and held the office of Reporter for his Junior Class. In 1971, he married the love of his life, Marietta Binger and together they had 3 daughters, Summer, Rebecca, and Kimberly. His family meant everything to him and brought him the most joy. Upon graduation from high school, he entered the United States Air Force and went on to faithfully serve his country for the next 20 years. He had a wonderful career that led him to serve throughout the world, including to places as Japan, Germany, South Korea, Turkey and more. After retiring from the Air Force, David moved back home to Bedford, Va. He obtained his Master Electrician License and started his own business, Old Sawmill Road Electric, where he proudly provided electrical services to the community for over 10 years. Growing up on a farm provided him with a strong work ethic and the ability to build or fix anything. He was a skilled carpenter and loved working with his hands. He felt most at home in the outdoors and among nature. David was an eternal optimist who always tried to see the good in everything and everyone. He had a heart of gold and made people feel at ease. He had a wonderful sense of humor and had a gift for making others laugh. David was preceded in death by his parents, Mary Jane and William H. Salyer. He is survived by his wife, Marietta, daughters Summer Salyer of Washington, DC, Rebecca Salyer of Richmond, VA, Kimberly Torres (Tecolote) of Buffalo, NY and grandchildren, Asan, Isis and Bryant. He is also survived by his brother, Joseph M. Salyer (Barbara) of Winchester, VA, sister Nancy K. Salyer of Bedford, VA, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. The family would like to thank Dr. Rajapillai Bharathan and the staff at the VA Medical Center in Salem, VA for all of the loving care and support that they provided to David throughout the years. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to the Wounded Warrior Project. Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.