David Gerald Hewett

On Tuesday, October 29, 2024, David Gerald Hewett, age 91 of Brevard, North Carolina passed away peacefully at home with his devoted wife, Anne, and his daughters Susanne and Karen, by his side. 

Born on November 15, 1932, in Jackson County, Florida, David was the seventh son of Willie Brogdon Hewett and David Louis Hewett. He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister, and six brothers. Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 63 years, Anne, daughters Susanne McDonald of Brevard and Karen Phillips (Paul) of Brevard, and his grandchildren Connor McDonald, Emily McDonald, Graham Phillips, John Phillips, and Jesse Phillips. He is also survived by a brother, Warren Clayton Hewett of Orangeburg, South Carolina, and many cherished nieces and nephews.

At the young age of 16, he graduated from Malone High School in Malone, Florida. Shortly after graduation, he created a plan for his future that included serving his country in the United States Coast Guard. His Coast Guard Service allowed him to attend Stetson University in Deland, Florida. He graduated from Stetson in 1958 with a Bachelor of Arts in religion and philosophy with plans to attend The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky. While there he earned a Bachelor of Divinity Degree, a Masters in Religious Education, and met the love of his life - Anne. After Seminary, the young married couple moved to Tallahassee, Florida where he earned a Master’s Degree and a Ph.D. in History from Florida State University.

Upon graduating from FSU, he accepted a position as the chair of the Social Science Division at Albany Junior College/Darton College. During his tenure as a college professor, he shared his passion for American history and philosophy with thousands of college students. He was known as a brilliant and gifted lecturer in the college classroom as well as the Sunday School room. Well-respected for his wisdom and knowledge of American history, his public speaking calendar was always full. David enjoyed making local television appearances and guest lecturing across the Southeast. Also a gifted writer, his letters to the editor and historical articles appeared in the Albany Herald. Additionally, he wrote a play that commemorated the 200th anniversary of the founding of Georgia, An Evening with James Oglethorpe. 

Upon retiring, David and Anne enjoyed traveling and spending time at their mountain homes in Ellijay and Pine Mountain, Georgia where they loved welcoming friends and family into their homes. Cherished memories of train rides with his grandchildren on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway were made many times. “Papa” claimed bragging rights for making that train ride more than five times so that each young grandchild could enjoy the experience. 

He loved caring and providing for his family - first his wife and two daughters, and then, the apples of his eye - his grandchildren. He made sure they all had fun while spending time with him. Whether it was countless pushes in the baby swing, lawn mower rides, or teaching them how to parallel park, Papa was glad to keep them entertained. Always the consummate grandparent, he treasured every moment with them until his final days. 

Those desiring may make memorial gifts in memory of David to The Cindy Platt Boys & Girls Club of Transylvania County, 11 Gallimore Road Brevard, NC 28712, or to Porterfield United Methodist Church, 2200 Dawson Road Albany, GA 31707.