David Benjamin Topping

David Benjamin Topping, Sr., a devoted family man and talented musician passed away peacefully at the age of 61 on October 17, 2024, with his loving family by his side.

David was born on June 8, 1963, at Dixie Hospital in Hampton, VA. He graduated from Poquoson High School in 1981 and The Diesel Institute of America as a Diesel Mechanic Technician in 1983. Upon his graduation, David went to work at Newport News Shipbuilding in Department O43, where he was a dedicated employee for 42 years.  David spent his career working diligently at NNS, where his dedication and expertise earned him the appreciation and respect of his colleagues. His true joy was found in music and being on the water. He had a profound appreciation for various genres and spent countless hours enjoying live performances while sharing his musical talent with those around him. As a musician, David was a fixture in the local music scene.  His love of music brought joy to all who knew him. His family and friends will always remember him playing guitar by the fire at the many oyster roasts he hosted and attended.

David grew up boating and cruising the waters around Poquoson. Some of his greatest memories were spent in the Poquoson River enjoying a “slick cam” with his family and friends. His love of the water and music were passed down to his sons. They will always cherish the time they spent boating and playing music together. 

David’s greatest pride was his family. He is survived by his three sons David Benjamin (Ben) Topping, Jr., wife Nicole, Jeremy Christopher Topping and Jacob Matthew Topping, two grandsons, Easton Benjamin Topping and Graham Lewis Topping, stepson Aidan Selmer, stepdaughter Dara Coleman; (mother of Ben Topping), Kathi DeRyder; (mother of Jeremy Topping, Jacob Topping, Aidan Selmer, and Dara Coleman), Kim Wolters, and many more loving family and friends. His children and grandsons were the center of his life. They will deeply miss their father’s guidance and love.

He is preceded in death by his father, Harry Benjamin Topping Jr., his mother, Carole Hehl Topping, brother Matthew Christopher Topping, grandfather Harry Benjamin Topping Sr., and grandmother, Nan Moore Topping.

A memorial service will be held to honor his memory.  The family invites those who wish to pay respects to celebrate David’s life at Trinity United Methodist Church 1294 Poquoson Avenue Poquoson, VA 23662 on Wednesday October 30th at 2 PM.

A Celebration of Life gathering of family and friends will be held at Poquoson Yacht Club 417 Messick Road Poquoson, VA 23662 on Sunday November 3rd from 2 PM to 5 PM.  The family invites musicians to play a song or two in memory of David.

David’s legacy will live on through the many lives he touched, and the memories shared by those who loved him. His love for music and family will continue to inspire and uplift all who knew him. David will be remembered for his kind heart, infectious smile, and generous spirit.

Rest in peace, David. Your melody will forever live on in our hearts.

Arrangements and heartfelt guidance through Claytor Rollins Funeral Home.

Online condolences to claytorrollins.com.

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