David Noel Bird Sr., 76, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away in his home on Monday, August 10, 2026.

Born in Motoka, West Virginia, he eventually made his way to Radford, Virginia, where he graduated from VOTECH as an electrician. It was there that he began building the life that would become his greatest accomplishment. A life centered around family, hard work, service, and love.

After marrying his wife, Gail, they began their family and put down roots in Pulaski County, where they would spend the years building a life together.

He was a provider at heart. He worked hard, not for recognition, but because taking care of his family was simply who he was. He spent 37 years at Lynchburg Foundry until its closure, and then continued working at James Hardie, where he finished his career. He took pride in his work, but his greatest pride was always his family.

To know him was to know someone who would help whenever he could. He gave his time, his talents, and his heart freely. He didn't need to be asked twice when someone needed a helping hand. He simply showed up.

He also had a deep and genuine love for nature and the beauty of the world around him. He loved the ocean, the peacefulness of being near the water, and the simple beauty found outdoors. He had a special place in his heart for animals of all kinds. Whether they were wild or domesticated, he appreciated them and believed every creature had a place in this world. His love for nature reflected so much of who he was, quiet, gentle, curious, and able to find joy in the simple things.

But to his family, he was so much more.

He was the person who worked behind the scenes to make sure everyone else was taken care of. His love was often expressed through sacrifice, hard work, and simply being there. He may not have always said what was in his heart, but his family never had to wonder if they were loved. He showed them.

His greatest legacy is the family he leaves behind.

He is survived by his wife, Gail Bird; his sons, David Bird Jr. and Tami and Erik Bird and Tara; and son in law, Mike Sutphin; his grandchildren, Chasity Sutphin, John “JD” Sutphin, Breanna Fitzwater, Katie Sutphin, Suri Bird, Oakley Bird, Syra Bird, and Bexley Bird; and his great-grandchildren, Aleka Spencer and Bridger Sutphin.

He is also survived by his brothers, Ralph Bird Jr. and Bobbi, Dr. William Bird and Deidre, and Keith Bird, as well as extended nieces and nephews and countless friends whose lives he touched throughout the years.

He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Angela Sutphin; his parents, Betty and Ralph Bird, Sr.; his in-laws, Elizabeth and Tyler Merrix; and sister-in-law, Vicki East.

While his family will feel his absence in countless ways, they will also carry him with them in the stories they tell, the lessons he taught, the traditions he helped create, the places they shared, and in the love he poured into each generation.

A man doesn't measure his life by what he owns or how much he accomplishes. He measures it by who he loved, who he helped, and what he leaves behind.

By that measure, his life was extraordinary.

He leaves behind a family who was deeply loved, a community that was better because he was part of it, and a legacy of hard work, kindness, sacrifice, service, appreciation for nature, and selfless love.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to ACG Hospice of Radford, Virginia, for the compassionate care, kindness, and dignity they provided during his final days. Their support, comfort, and care meant more to our family than words can adequately express.

The family will receive friends from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m. on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at the Mullins Funeral Home in Radford. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. with Brother Melvin Brammer officiating. Interment will follow in Highland Memory Gardens in Dublin, Virginia.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in his memory to Pulaski County Humane Society, Radford Animal Shelter, or a local animal shelter or rescue of your choice.

The Bird family is in the care of Mullins Funeral Home & Crematory in Radford. www.mullinsfuneralhome.com