David E. Royalty
October 12, 1948 ~ April 28, 2026
David Edwin Royalty, 77, died on April 28, 2026. David was born on October 12, 1948, in Danville, to the late Hubert and Myrtle Royalty. He is survived by his devoted wife, Ann Powell Royalty; his children, Elizabeth Powell Royalty (Jason Benson) and Jason Hardin Royalty (Misty Coles); his grandchildren, Quinn, Cade, and Kaitlyn; and his brothers, Jerry (Kathy) Royalty and Delmer (Geraldine) Royalty.
David died peacefully surrounded by his beloved wife of 58 years, his two children, and his brothers. Never one to stay put for too long, his life journey took him from Junction City, Kentucky, to farms filled with innumerable cats and dogs, a handful of thoroughbreds, and the occasional goat, to Northern Kentucky and then Florida, and finally back to Danville, Kentucky, which was arguably home to his heart. David worked as a math teacher, computer programmer on the front lines of the digital revolution, and director of large data centers for many years before retiring to do the things he loved best: fishing, especially in the beautiful Florida waters; golfing, especially with his brothers; telling the worst dad jokes; regaling his friends and family with the hijinks of his and his brothers’ childhood; exploring local areas; making friends; following UK basketball and the races; and watching TV with his eyes closed. David was unwaveringly proud of his children and three grandchildren, adoring of his wife, and admiring of his brothers and friends. He will be sorely missed.
A Gathering of Family and Friends will be held on May 9, 2026 from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at Stith Family Center, 506 W. Shelby St., Junction City, KY 40440. All are invited to celebrate the life of a remarkable man who touched many lives.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in David’s memory to Clark’s Run Environmental and Education Corp (CREEC).
Services
Gathering of Friends: May 9, 2026 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Room: Family Center
Stith Funeral Home, Junction City
506 W. Shelby Street
Junction City, Kentucky 40440
859-854-3322
www.stithcares.com
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I meet David and his 2 brothers at Dix River Golf. He was joy to be around, never to serious about anything. I will miss his jokes. He surely had a good family. I will be thinking of all his family and friends
May David’s memory be a blessing to his family and all that knew him and enjoyed his company.
To Ann and family, Coleen and I are so sorry to hear of your loss. David and I worked together for many years and he became a good friend. You all will be in our thoughts and prayers. Jim and Coleen Bondi
David was our beloved friend since Centre College days, beginning in 1966. We had many great adventures together, as well as regular Zoom calls. David was an extraordinary human being – intelligent, funny, kind, thoughtful – and so much more.
We will miss him terribly, but we have so many wonderful memories to carry with us.
David was one of my favorite playing partners at Dix River. You could always count on him for great chips and putts, but more importantly, he was truly a joy to be around. Our love for horse racing started every conversation about who each other liked for the upcoming big races. I can only imagine he would have liked the KY Derby winner. He will be missed by all who knew him.
My condolences go out to his brothers and family.
So sorry for you loss Ann. You and David were both so thoughtful and generous in welcoming me to your home. I know the 2 of you were very close, so I’m sure this is difficult for you. My thoughts & prayers are with u now. I’m sending u love,