January 10, 1961 – May 7, 2024
KITTY HAWK — John David (J.D.) Abshire, Jr. of Kitty Hawk, NC, died Tuesday, May 7, 2024, after a brief illness.
Born January 10, 1961, in Norfolk, Virginia, he was the son of the late John David Abshire, Sr. and Yvonne Hooker Abshire.
J.D. graduated from Kempsville High School in 1979 and joined the United States Air Force, where he honorably served his county for four years as a Fire Protection Specialist.
Upon discharge from the USAF, he joined the Virginia Beach Fire Department in 1983 and proudly served its citizens for the next 28 years, retiring in 2011. During his tenure with the department, he earned Hazardous Materials Technician and Fire Inspector certifications. His fellow firefighters loved and respected him for his courage and strong sense of duty.
In 2018, J.D. moved to the Outer Banks, where he quickly embraced “life at the beach.” Although retired, he enjoyed his part-time job at Holly Ridge Golf Course and could be seen picking up balls on the driving range or swinging a club himself most days.
J.D. was a man of strong faith and unwavering integrity. He lived his life simply and intentionally with a grateful heart. He was dedicated to his family and friends and a fierce protector of those he loved. He carried himself with dignity and will be lovingly remembered for his quiet strength, quick wit, and selfless acts of love.
J.D. is survived by his wife, Debbie Wescott; sons Bryan (Bethany) and Joshua; daughter, Sara; stepdaughters Jenna (Owen) and Meredith (Josh); grandchildren, Callen, Tristan, and Ruby; brother Scott (Kathy); niece Anna Kate; and his loyal shadow – dog Hattie Mae. Also left to cherish his memory are a host of friends and his firefighter family.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, June 1, 2024, at Twiford Colony Chapel in Manteo. To livestream J.D.’s service, visit www.TwifordFH.com. All friends and family are invited to attend a reception immediately following the service. Details to be announced.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Vigilant Watch Inc. (P.O. Box 68264, Virginia Beach, VA 23471, or online at vigilantwatchinc.org).
Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com.
