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David Brabham Obituary

David Brian Brabham CHARLESTON - David Brian Brabham, 69, entered into eternal rest on August 25, 2024, one day after his birthday. Davey, as he was known, lived, loved, worked, and played his entire life in Charleston. He grew up on the banks of the Stono River, where his parents created a sandy beach for him in their backyard on the lntracoastal Waterway. Davey was an avid boater and boat racer, and loved high-performance cars. His love of boats started at the age of six, when he began driving a duck boat. Through boating, he met and made so many lifelong friends. He ventured into the world of racing, driving many different customized boats, participating in local races and others including the Grand Prix of Naples, and Port Neches RiverFest in Texas. Throughout his life, he also owned and enjoyed driving his favorite sports cars, Porsches and his F-Type black Jag. Davey's love of drums began at the age of 13. He impressed his drum teacher as he quickly picked up the nuances, and was ambidextrous, as well. Later in life, he began playing drums once again. He could often be found in his drum room playing along with his favorite songs. Davey began his career working in his father's Piggly Wiggly grocery stores located on Meeting Street and on Broad Street. He also worked at the new store on Maybank Highway. He later owned Brabham Liquors, Inc. stores in Mount Pleasant and West Ashley, and Brabham Bartending Service catering many local events. When you walked through the doors of his stores, he treated you more like a friend than a customer. Davey was a good friend to many people. He went out of his way to help people in need. Whether it was a few dollars, a good meal, or literally giving someone the coat off of his back in cold weather, Davey was always ready to help. He lived his life to the fullest and loved to share stories of his many adventures. He had a voice, cadence, and laugh that was unmistakable, all his own, and will be missed dearly by all who knew and loved him. Davey lived a full, exciting and happy life and while he will be missed by his family and friends, we were all better for having him in our lives. Davey and Elaine traveled every spring in their early years, always choosing a tropical paradise to vacation in where they would relax and enjoy the beauty of nature along with the kind people they met at each resort. They also had a tradition for over twenty years to spend a weekend in Hilton Head to celebrate Davey's birthday since the day Davey turned 30. Elaine surprised him and picked him up from work for a birthday weekend she had arranged there. Davey, since childhood, was a loyal Los Angeles Rams football fan and anyone who knew him well, knew it! Go Rams! Bring home another Super Ball win for Davey! There is a quote that sums up Davey's life: "Death is not extinguishing the light; It is only putting out the lamp because dawn has come." Davey is predeceased by his parents, F. Marion and Inez Brabham, and his brother, Arthur Brabham all of Charleston. He is survived by his loving wife, Elaine Ortner Brabham, who spent 52 years with her husband. Their story began as high school sweethearts, and they have been loving soulmates side by side ever since. Davey is also survived by his brothers, F. Marion "Fudgy" Brabham, Jr. (Debra), Roger Brabham (Ellie), Keith Brabham, and sister, Jan Brabham Atkinson all of Charleston. Sister-in-law, Brenda Ortner Silverboard (Kenny) of Atlanta and brother-in-law, Lee Ortner (Karen) of Charleston. He is also survived by nephew, Mark Brabham (Amy), nieces, Lisa Atkinson Reynolds (David), Leslie Atkinson Lavendar, Amy Atkinson Hethington (Sean), and Roxanne "Betsy" Brabham all of Charleston. Nieces Erica Silverboard Beard (Brandon) and Jamie Silverboard Weismark (llan) of Atlanta. He is also survived by several other great-nieces and nephews. His faithful and beloved German Shepherd, Donut, was by his side for over 12 years. At David's request, no formal services will be planned. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (www.stjude.org), or to a local charity that supports animals. Arrangements by James A. McAlister, Inc. (843) 766-1365.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Charleston Post & Courier from Sep. 7 to Sep. 8, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
for David Brabham

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Major (ret) Judy Smith

February 19, 2026

I did not really know David I spent 2 shrimp seasons working with his twin brother Rodger. I was more of an outdoor person so getting to work on a shrimp boat was the best job. Rodger was cool working with a girl no hassle just chill. I grew up as a Navy brat so being on the water and working was awesome job for a girl back then. Bucky Chapman Rodger´s roommate and friend help me meet Micah and got me the job. Rodger shared he had a twin but we were just kids working on the shrimp boats for Micah La Roche(sp) on John´s Island. We really didn´t talk about family just hung on the John´s Island crowd. I would leave and join the Army December 1976. I visited 1979 prior to shipping out for 3rd ID in Germany hung out with Jane and Micah my husband was already in Germany waiting for me and our daughter. I imagine he got his sense of humor from his brother and brothers yes he had a sense of humor!! I would retire 2005 from Army and my husband and I would go to Charleston to look up the area and I showed him the areas I lived and worked. I got to meet up with Micah but Rodger had moved to another area. I was Judy Robison when I was working on the Billy Boy. I saw the picture of David and it definitely reminded of his brother. I believe his mother was from Holly Hill, SC which is where I would grow up after my father retired from Navy. God Bless your family so sorry for your loss

Laurie Young

September 10, 2024

Elaine, I was so very sorry to hear of your sweetheart's passing. You have been in our thoughts and prayers. Fifty two years is such a wonderful tribute to each other. Big hug, my friend and we are just down the road should you ever need anything. God bless you and your family.

Rick lingle

September 9, 2024

I´m Rick. I went to several events and celebrations with my love Carol Collins. There Imeet Dave. We hit it off and I wish that that I had stayed in touch more because I knew he enjoyed being around me as much as I did him. One event Carol and I, Dave and Elaine were sitting together and Dave said, Rick, let me know when it´s 8:30 because that´s all I signed up for. When he asked me what time it was, I said 8:05. At 9 o´clock he realizes that I lied about the time! I didn´t want him to leave. Love you Dave. Love Rick Lingle

Cheryl Granet

September 8, 2024

Condolences to the Brabham family in their loss

Cindy Nigels

September 8, 2024

I'm so sorry to hear about Davey. My husband Scott always enjoyed talking to him on the road on wappoo. It was such a wonderful man. My prayers are with you. Elaine and all of the May the Lord tell you comfort at this time.

Hugh McColl

September 8, 2024

I am very saddened to hear of the loss of David, my condolences to Elaine and the Brabham Family.

Riddell Perry

September 8, 2024

I am sorry for the loss in the family. May peace be with all of you at this difficult time.

Chris Sosnowski

September 8, 2024

My condolences to the Brabham family

Bill Felder

September 8, 2024

My memory of Davey (known to me as David, one of my friend, Arthur Brabham´s younger brothers-and one of his twin brothers. Given our 15 year age difference, he was very young when it was my honor to have known him. I do remember him very well. Arthur was a dear friend-one of my best friends, ever. My memories of Davey and his family are very positive. His family was very kind to me at a time that i needed kindness and support. May he rest in peace.

Cynthia Hill

August 31, 2024

Dear Elaine, my prayers and thoughts are with you. I am so sorry for your loss. I know how much Davey meant to you and how much you meant to him. I know you will miss him on this earth so much. Please know I am here if I can help in any way. I love you much, Cynthia

Nell Postell

August 31, 2024

RIP....My dear Elaine I send you hugs, thoughts and prayers. Peace be with you. Memories last forever.

Robert Bloomingburg

August 30, 2024

Sorry to hear of Davys passing. My family lived at Edgewater Park down the street from the Brabhams. My older brother Henry was good friends with the whole family and Davy was always friendly with everyone in the neighborhood. I like riding my motorcycle down to the bridge at Edgewater Park and unwind but every once in a while I´d see Davy boogieing down the road in his Jaguar waving as he rode by. He will be missed as he was an integral part of the Edgewater family

Cindy Nye

August 30, 2024

Elaine
I am so sorry for your loss. I didn´t know Davy well but the love you shared was so precious and obvious to all who saw you together. Hugs

Laura McGuckin Steinhauer

August 30, 2024

I´m so sorry for your loss Elaine and family

Mary Hilton Cooper

August 29, 2024

So sad to hear about Davie. Condolences to Elaine and the family.
Mary Hilton Cooper

Claudia Fitzgerald

August 29, 2024

So sorry to learn of Davie´s passing. My deepest sympathy to Elaine and the family.

Tommy Billings

August 29, 2024

So sorry to hear that Davie is no longer with us here on earth, but his spirit and soul will be in our hearts for ever.Davie has been a part of my family's life for 60+ years. Elaine was always by Davies side, no matter what kind of crazy adventure he persuade---like racing speed boats! I will miss my friend. I'm sure the first thing he asked the Good Lord, is speed boat racing aloud in heven. God Bless you and all the family.

Lori Nolan

August 29, 2024

My Thoughts and prayers are with Elaine and Family at this very Sad Time.

Lenny LaBrasca

August 28, 2024

David and I met when he and my dad started working together in Mt P. He has always been such a pleasant memory and will remain so. I hope we can meet up again one day.

Pat Rabicki

August 28, 2024

I hate to hear this sad news. I have known Davey & Elaine for at least 40 years. RIP Davey, you will be missed.
Pat Rabicki

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