Well, how do we start this tale? If David Forrest Tugman were here, he’d likely insist we make it worth your while. He wouldn’t stand for a lackluster dud of a story.
David Forrest Tugman of Signal Mountain—husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, friend, lawyer, environmentalist, Cubs fan (for reasons no one can quite explain), and connoisseur of all things delightful—has left this world a better place than he found it. He is survived by—or perhaps simply taking a temporary leave from—his beloved wife of 43 years, Kathy. Their love story was nothing short of epic, filled with adventures and laughter that could fill volumes (and probably should).
David leaves behind four children, 15 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren, each of whom carries a piece of his legacy—whether through his love of books (so many books) or his steadfast commitment to making the world a little greener, a little kinder, and a lot more interesting. He also leaves a wealth of friends and countless others who had the privilege of sharing in his extraordinary life.
Born with a passion for knowledge and a drive to make a difference, David spent his formative years at McCallie, Vanderbilt, and Emory, honing his sharp intellect and deep sense of purpose as a writer, poet, and Keats scholar. As a lawyer, he brought his brilliance to Miller & Martin with estate planning and tax law, but his heart championed many other causes.
In his quieter moments, you might find David at the Bess Cottage, his cherished retreat, where the world slowed down just enough for reflection and gratitude. Or perhaps with a scotch in hand, pondering life’s mysteries and delights—listening to music from around the world. Music was another of David’s great loves. He and Kathy wrote songs together, weaving their shared experiences into melodies that told so many tales. His legendary audio setup—meticulously assembled and maintained—was a testament to his passion to hear clearly the music the musicians intended.
David’s story is not a tale of endings but of continuations. He lives on in the laughter of his grandchildren, the warmth of shared memories, and the indelible mark he left on every person fortunate enough to know him. So, raise a glass of your favorite libation, crack open a good book, turn up the music, or take a stroll through nature. David Forrest Tugman wouldn’t have it any other way.
We will share some time telling tales and remembering David on Saturday, Jan. 4, at Chattanooga Funeral Home, North Chapel on TN-153 in Hixson. Receiving starts at noon followed by a service at 2 p.m. He will be laid to rest in a separate event at Forest Hills Cemetery on Monday, Jan. 6.
In lieu of flowers we ask that you continue supporting some of David's favorite non-profits McCoy Farms, American Battlefield Trust, and First Book.
Arrangements are under the care of the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory and Florist, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson. Please share your thoughts and memories at www.chattanooganorthchapel.com