David Barclay Sandefur

David Barclay Sandefur, 69, passed away on February 10, 2026, in Abingdon due to complications following a heroic battle with cancer. Throughout his fight, he showed inspiring courage, strength, and unwavering faith that touched all who walked beside him.

Born April 6, 1956, in Saltville, Virginia, David lived a life defined by dedication—to his family, his community, and the countless young athletes he mentored.

A Master Electrician by trade, David devoted his career to Hanover County Schools, where his work ethic and steady presence made a lasting impact. After retirement, he poured his energy into his small electrical business, something he absolutely loved, and continued building relationships with customers and coworkers who quickly became friends.

Coaching was one of the great passions of his life. David coached football and baseball for many years, including his sons’ teams, and was a tireless advocate for his players. He believed in encouraging young people, building their confidence, and teaching lessons that went far beyond the field. The positive impact he had on his players will continue for generations.

David was known for his humor, his storytelling, and his remarkable ability to talk to anyone he met. He never met a stranger. His warmth, quick wit, and generous heart drew people in and made them feel valued. Even during treatment, David’s humor and gift for conversation filled the cancer center with light, and he formed meaningful friendships with the nurses who cared for him so faithfully.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 43 years, Donna Menzies Sandefur, his equal partner in life and love. In his battle with cancer, Donna became his steadfast caregiver and advocate, caring for him with extraordinary strength, tenderness, and unwavering devotion.

In addition to his wife, he leaves behind his loving sons, Ryan Sandefur and wife Christy, and Taylor Sandefur and wife Kourtney; and a son in love, Seth Cutler-Voltz and wife Emily. He was a proud and adoring grandfather to Canon, Keely, Berkley, Beckett, Tate, and Brady.

He is also survived by his loving sisters, Theresa Sandefur and Catherine Sandefur; his sister-in-law JoAnn Sandefur; his wife’s cousin and her husband, Deb and Mike Moore; his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Kirk and Gale Menzies; and their children, Scott Menzies and Kelly Aigner. He is further survived by his dear friends, Relia Ryan Watson and William Rosenbaum.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Jane Sandefur; his brother, Thomas Sandefur; and his father-in-law and mother-in-law, John and Shirley Menzies. 

Celebrations of David’s life are being planned and will be held at a later date in Abingdon, Virginia, and Mechanicsville, Virginia.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, a charity dear to David’s heart and a source of inspiration to him.

David’s legacy lives on in the lives he strengthened, the laughter he sparked, the lessons he taught, and the inspiring courage he modeled for all of us.

Frost Funeral Home and Cremation Services is honored to serve the family of Mr. David Barclay Sandefur.