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By C.Y. Peters

In 1952, David met Jesse Birchfield at WBEJ radio station, where he was a host on a show titled “Big Bill Hale and Little David,” a children’s program that ran for three years. Jesse Birchfield was a college football player who sparked David’s lifelong passion for the sport of football.

In 1956, David was a student at Harold McCormick School, where he took part in the school’s historic pageant as an attendant, showcasing his community involvement at a young age. That same year, David’s work ethic in his newspaper delivery job earned him first place in the Elizabethton Star’s carrier division for recruiting new customers. His prize? A complete fishing outfit, which was a source of great pride for young David. His friends Benny Shankles and Jerry Hayes followed closely behind in second and third place, respectively.

David’s successes didn’t stop there. In 1957, he won the recruiting award for the second time, leading a group of nine carriers to sign up an impressive 112 new subscribers in just six weeks. That year also marked another milestone for David—he caught his first fish, a 2-pound, 15-ounce bass, adding to his growing list of accomplishments.

By 1958, David had developed a flair for public speaking. He delivered a speech at the American Legion Women’s Auxiliary meeting titled “I Speak for Democracy.” This experience demonstrated his growing confidence and willingness to engage in civic life.

In 1960, David reached an important milestone in his athletic career. As a senior on the Elizabethton High School Cyclone football team, he had been a starter for three years and a player for four years. His leadership on the field was evident, and his contribution to the team was invaluable. After graduating, David continued his academic and athletic career at Northeast Collegiate College in New Jersey, where he played football.

In 1963, while traveling home for the holidays with his brother Danny and a friend from Orlando, they encountered a building on fire. Without hesitation, they stopped to help, pulling furniture and belongings from the flames until it became too dangerous. Their quick thinking and bravery saved almost everything from the building, later identified as an economics building.

David’s journey then took him to New York, where he worked from 1964 to 1966. However, in 1967, he returned home to Elizabethton and began a new chapter as a TSSAA baseball official. His career as an official spanned over 50 years, during which he officiated countless high school, district, regional, and even state-level games in both softball and football.

In 1968, David married Evelyn Carol Hicks on Oct. 19 at Grace Baptist Church. That same year, he joined the Elizabethton Jaycees, where he quickly made an impact. David was awarded the “Spoke of the Year” award for being the outstanding new Jaycee, a testament to his commitment to service and leadership. In 1969, he was elected vice president of the Jaycees, and just two years later, on May 9, 1971, he became president. That year also marked a personal milestone as David and Carol welcomed their first child, a daughter, followed by a son a few years later.

In addition to his work as an insurance salesman, David served as the Sunday school director at Grace Baptist Church, continuing his lifelong dedication to his faith and community. In 1975, he was named the “Outstanding Man of the Year” by the Elizabethton Jaycees, a well-deserved honor recognizing his contributions to the community.

David’s dedication extended beyond the Jaycees. In 1977, he was appointed to the Carter County Boys Club board of directors. In 1978, he became president of the Region 1 Association after serving two years as vice president. He also joined the Lions Club in the early 1980s, furthering his community involvement.

From 1984 to 1992, David served as treasurer for the Children’s Bible Mission in Watauga and volunteered to drive children home after camp. Honored for his dedication, he received a plaque recognizing over 50 years of service to the TSSAA Region 1 football officials.

Despite personal tragedies, including the loss of his son in 2000 and his mother in 2008, David remained active in his community and sports officiating. In 2014, as secretary/treasurer of the Region 1 Football Association, David played a key role in founding the Mountain Empire Chapter of the National Football Foundation. His achievements culminated in his induction into the National Football Hall of Fame in 2016 and the Carter County Sports Hall of Fame in 2017.

David Birkner’s life has been one of service, leadership, and a deep commitment to both his community and sports. His contributions as a player, official, coach, and community leader have left an indelible mark on Elizabethton and beyond.