David Somers Obituary

Captain David W. Somers, Jr. (USN ret.), 85, of Isle of Palms, SC, died on Sunday, February 4, 2018. He was born on August 25, 1932 in Philadelphia, PA, and was the son of the late David, and Jennie Somers of Hilton Head, SC. He attended high school in Washington, D.C. and later graduated from the University of Maryland. Captain Somers served his country with honor and distinction for thirty two years as a Naval Officer. He commanded Destroyer Squadron 6, USS SIERRA (AD 18), Readiness Support Group Charleston, Navy Recruiting District Cleveland and USS CONE (DD 866). He also served as Executive Officer on board USS PONCE (LPD 15), USS NEWMAN K. PERRY (DD 883), USS THOMAS J. GARY (DER 326) AND USS SPOONBILL (MSC 202) as well as serving in various other assignments both at sea and ashore. On July 1, 1987, he retired from the Navy after completing his assignment as Chief of Staff, United States Southern Command in Panama Central America. After retiring from the Navy, he returned to Isle of Palms where his passion for all things at sea led him to Luden's Marine Supply in Charleston where he worked for many years. He maintained an active lifestyle and enjoyed tennis, windsurfing, boating, biking, and the beach. He was fully engaged in the community and local politics and served on the Isle of Palms Planning Board. He served his country, his family and his community vigorously and unapologetically. He once said "I've lived a great life" and indeed he did. Survivors include his daughter Jennifer (Scott); son, David (Karen); two beautiful and exceptional granddaughters, Samantha Jane and Emma Hutton; sister, Janice Jonson; nephews David and John Jonson; niece Rhys Hilton; five great nieces and nephews; as well as the extended family of his late wife Janet Grace Somers. A Visitation will be held Friday, February 23, 2018 from 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM at McALISTER-SMITH FUNERAL HOME, MT. PLEASANT A Funeral Service will be held Saturday, February 24, 2018 at 11:00 AM at the Sunrise Presbyterian Church, 3222 Middle Street, Sullivan's Island, SC 29482. Immediately following the service, the family will host a gathering for family and friends at Captain Somers' home on 52nd Avenue on the Isle of Palms. Captain Somers will be laid to rest on Monday, February 26, 2018 at 11:00 AM at Beaufort National Cemetery, 1601 Boundary Street, Beaufort, SC 29902. His family is sincerely grateful to the talented medical team, caretakers, close friends, and family who, through their dedication and devotion, ensured that Captain Somers received the top care, companionship and quality of life that he richly deserved. Expressions of sympathy may be viewed or submitted to www.mcalister-smith.com Arrangements entrusted to McALISTER-SMITH FUNERAL HOME, 1520 RIFLE RANGE RD, MT. PLEASANT SC 29464. (843) 884-3833