David C. Beam, 91, went home to his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Aug. 28, 2024.

He was born April 8, 1933, in Cleveland County, North Carolina. David was the last surviving of nine children born to Elzie Lee Beam and Della Cora Borders Beam. He loved both his parents, but absolutely idolized his father. Elzie Lee did whatever he could to help David grow into the successful man and father he became.

David's brothers were Charles, Carlton, and Mike; his sisters were Louise Beam McKee, Caroline Beam Martin, Vernell Beam Goforth Jones, and Cora Ray Beam Shinn. Their sister, Myra Sue, died as an infant.

Survivors include his wife, Aileen Dixon Beam, whom he married Sept. 8, 1986. His children are Scott Beam (Janice), Paula Adams, Tracy Goins (the late Rodney Goins), Bettyann Gibson (Darren), and Haley Stutzman (Dan). Aileen's children are Kay Yarboro (Robert), Denise Arrowood (Chuck) and the late Don Dixon (Terry).

David leaves behind precious extended family: nieces and nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He bragged about sharing his birthday with Myra Sue and three grandchildren.

He graduated from Township Three High School and attended Gardner-Webb Junior College.

David was a lifetime member of Elizabeth Baptist Church, where he faithfully sang in the choir and taught Sunday school, and gave his time, talents, and treasures by serving on numerous committees.

David was an avid entrepreneur. Like his parents and siblings, he was a hard worker. He founded the first motorcycle dealership in Cleveland County as a one-man operation. David built his business and enduring legacy into Honda Motorcycles of Shelby. Today, it is a three-generation, family owned business. David employed several of his nieces and nephews, as well as friends, throughout the years. In 2019, the business celebrated its 50th anniversary. Only 12 percent of family owned businesses survive into the third generation. Honda of Shelby is thriving.

David never met a stranger and never missed an opportunity to support non-profit organizations. He found joy in philanthropy. He was a member of the Kiwanis Club, a board member of the Boys and Girls Club of Cleveland County, and a board member of the Christian Service Organization (CSO) at Gardner-Webb University.

The family extends special thanks to the staff of Hospice Cleveland County, Fair Haven Rehabilitation in Bostic, and Bayada Home Health in Shelby for the exceptional care they gave David.

Memorials: Christian Service Organization (CSO) at Gardner-Webb University, P.O. Box 997, Boiling Springs, NC 28017.

A funeral service will be held 11:00 AM Saturday, August 31, 2024 at Elizabeth Baptist Church officiated by Tim Beam, Mike McGee, and Rev. Dr. Rit Varriale. A receiving of friends and reception will immediately follow the service in the church fellowship hall. A private burial will be held in the church cemetery.

But do not ignore this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like one day.-- Second Peter 3:8

Online condolences may be made at www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com