David Leon Motley

David Leon Motley, Sr. age 81 of Blairs, Virginia passed away peacefully Wednesday, May 20, 2026 at his residence. Mr. Motley was born February 18, 1945 in Danville, Virginia to the late Virginia B. Oakes Motley and the late Earl Owen Motley. He was happily married to Joan Pittmon Motley for 58 years.

Mr. Motley proudly served our country in the US Navy from 1964 until 1967, including on the USS Mattaponi during the Vietnam War, and was a faithful member of Spring Garden Community Church. Mr. Motley retired from the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers Local 30, and enjoyed grouse hunting in the mountains, fishing and mowing his yard. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, cousin, and friend to all who knew him.

In addition to his beloved wife, he is also survived by his two daughters, Tonja Motley Locklear (Eric) and Nicole Motley van Esselstyn (Drew); his son, David Leon Motley, Jr.; his four grandchildren, Hannah Greco (Frank), Peyton Hudson (Cami), Abigail van Esselstyn, and Dalton van Esselstyn; his great grandson, Grayson Greco; his two sisters, Kathy Nester and Lisa Motley; his two brothers, Ronald Motley and Johnny Motley (Betty); his sisters-in-law, Myrtie P. Giles, Betty P. Davis, Joan Pittmon, and Vickye Pittmon; and his brothers-in-law, Vernon Pittmon, John Pittmon, and Mack “Pete” Eanes. He was also the proud uncle of many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

A funeral service honoring Mr. Motley will be held Tuesday, May 26, 2026, 11:00 a.m. at Spring Garden Community Church with Pastor Clark Crowder officiating. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Burial Park, Chatham, Virginia. A visitation will be held Monday, May 25, 2026 at Norris Funeral Service, Chatham Chapel from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.

At other times the family will receive friends at their residence.

Norris Funeral Services, Chatham Chapel is serving the family.