A funeral service will be 11 a.m., November 7, 2026 at Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel (660-679-6555) in Butler, Missouri. There will be a celebration of David's life on June 26, 2027 at Harmon Lake in Tiskilwa, Illinois. Family and friends will gather to honor his life and share memories of a man who meant so much to so many. Online condolences www.schowengerdtchapel.com.
David Alan Jennings passed away on October 26, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of memories, friendships, and love that will be cherished by all who knew him.
Born and raised in Butler, Missouri, David graduated from Butler High School Class of 1979. David carried his Midwestern roots with him throughout a life filled with adventure, meaningful relationships, and a love for the people around him. He proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1980 to 1984 as an aircraft maintenance specialist. In 1992, he began his career as a pilot for American Airlines, where he spent more than 30 years doing what he loved before retiring in 2023.
Throughout his life and career, David and his wife, Cindy, made homes in Illinois, Arizona, Texas, Ohio, and Kentucky before settling in Bandera, Texas. Wherever life took him, David had a special gift for making connections. He never met a stranger, and his kindness, quick wit, and great sense of humor made people feel welcome wherever he went. David had a way of turning acquaintances into friends and ordinary moments into lasting memories.
David was also the ultimate handyman. Whether he was working on cars, motorcycles, or houses, there wasn't much he couldn't fix. He had a natural talent for figuring things out and the skills to turn just about any problem into a solution.
David found joy in life's simple pleasures and in sharing them with others. Whether he was cooking up a batch of hot wings, firing up the barbecue, hiking a new trail, traveling somewhere new, playing guitar or fiddle, or enjoying live music, he was happiest when surrounded by family and friends. David especially loved riding his motorcycle through the beautiful Texas Hill Country. His love for music, good food, laughter, and adventure was matched only by his love for the people who filled his life.
In retirement, David continued to build friendships and stay connected to his community. He especially enjoyed volunteering at the 11th Street Cowboy Bar, helping prepare for parties and events. Through his time there, he met many new friends and found another place to share his generous spirit, humor, and love of being around people.
Above all, David was a devoted husband and father. He was a kind and loving man whose presence brought laughter, warmth, and joy to those around him. David was loved by so many, and his legacy will live on in the stories shared, the friendships built, the things he fixed, the music he played, the meals he prepared, and the countless lives he touched along the way. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by those who were fortunate enough to know and love him.
David is survived by his beloved wife, Cindy Jennings; daughter, Megan Laughlin and husband David; parents, Wilbur and JoAnn Jennings; sister, Dana Arnold and husband Jim; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. His family takes comfort in knowing that the love and laughter he shared will remain with them always.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to either of the following organizations in David's memory:
To honor David's lifelong connection to aviation, contributions may be made to the AOPA Foundation – Aviation Scholarship Program to support its aviation scholarship program.
Checks should be made payable to the AOPA Foundation and mailed to:
AOPA Foundation
421 Aviation Way
Frederick, MD 21701
Please write “In memory of David Jennings – scholarship” in the memo line of your check.
Online contributions may be made at webforms.aopa.org/scholarships2024. Please check the box to dedicate your gift in memory of David
Those wishing to honor David's love of the outdoors and the Texas Hill Country may make a memorial contribution to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation.
Donations may be made online at Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation – Memorial Contributions.
Please indicate “This is an honor or memorial gift- in memory of” when making your contribution.
To benefit the Butler Memorial Airport's new terminal project, contributions may be made by check payable to the City of Butler. Please write “airport terminal project” on the check line to designate your contribution for the project.
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