David Bennett Campbell's Obituary
Dallas, TX – Dr. David Bennett Campbell, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and dedicated dentist, passed away peacefully on December 14, 2024, at the age of 79, after a nearly decade-long journey with Parkinson's disease. David was surrounded by his family, who provided him with unwavering love and support throughout his life.
David was born on February 28, 1945, in Vallejo, CA, to Isabel (Kinsman) Campbell and Clarence Thelmer Campbell. At the age of 2, he moved with his family to Mission, TX, where he attended Mission High School. After graduating, David went on to earn his undergraduate degree in Biology from Baylor University in 1967, followed by a Master's degree in Biology from Baylor in 1969. After completing his Master's degree, David conducted cancer research at UT Southwestern Medical Center. He later returned to Baylor College of Dentistry, where he earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree in 1978, setting the foundation for a distinguished career in dentistry.
David practiced dentistry in Garland for 34 years, becoming known for his skill and compassionate care. Even after retirement, many of his former patients were complimented by their current dentists for the excellent condition of their dental work, reflecting David's careful attention to detail. In recognition of his years of service, he was awarded Life Membership to the Texas Dental Association.
David met Regina Michael, the love of his life, during his first year of practicing dentistry in 1979. The two were married on January 2, 1982, in Dallas, TX. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and a growing family, making Dallas their home for more than 40 years.
Above all, David cherished his role as father to his daughter, Lauren Garcia, and grandfather to his two grandchildren, Matteo and Isabel. He took great joy in watching Lauren and her husband, Miguel Garcia, raise their children. David delighted in spending time with Matteo and Isabel and could often be found feeding the geese along Lakeside Drive or fishing together at Caruth Park.
David was an active and faithful member of University Park United Methodist Church, where he found community through his 42-year participation in the New Life Sunday School Class and his covenant group, where he built lasting friendships and deepened his faith. He found joy in serving the church's mission, contributing as an usher during Sunday worship, using his carpentry skills with the Merry Misfits, supporting the community through bread runs with North Dallas Shared Ministries, and utilizing his art for dentistry to support missionary work in Guatemala.
David will be remembered for his embodiment of the fruits of the spirit – his loving heart, gentle nature, patience, and unwavering faith. His devotion to God and his family touched the lives of all who knew him.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate medical staff at Baylor Hospital of Dallas and David's devoted caretaker, Alex, for the extraordinary care and kindness they provided throughout his journey.
David is survived by his wife, Regina Campbell; his daughter, Lauren (Miguel) Garcia of San Francisco, CA; his beloved grandchildren, Matteo and Isabel Garcia; his brother, Stephen (Mary Ann) Campbell of Midway, UT; his nephew, Dr. Christopher (Jenny) Campbell; his great-nephew, Wes Campbell; and his great-niece, Emily Campbell of Park City, UT.
A memorial service to celebrate David's life will be held at University Park United Methodist Church in Dallas, TX, on December 20th at 3:00 p.m. For those unable to attend in person, a livestream of the service will be available at https://upumc.livecontrol.tv/6572b729.
Those wishing to make a donation in David’s memory may contribute to University Park United Methodist Church Missions, www.upumc.org/get-involved/mission/donate.html or Dallas Area Parkinson Society (DAPS) https://donate.daps.us/
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