Dr. David Torrence died on February 1, 2022, at his home in Meherrin, Virginia, at the age of 84. He is survived by his wife, JoAnn; his sons, Matthew Jameson Torrence and David, Jr. He is also survived by his brother, Timothy of San Antonia, Texas.
Born in Baltimore, MD, to parents, William and Mildred Torrence, he graduated from Towson State University with a B.S. in Secondary Education. Next, he earned a Masters and Doctorate from the Pennsylvania State University. His career ranged from teaching in public and private schools to positions in higher education at Wisconsin State University, Moravian College, and Tennessee Tech University. He ended his career as an instructional developer for an educational consortium of the elevator industry. During this time, he published many articles in professional journals.
David served his community as an elected member of the Attleboro (Massachusetts) school board. He was a master naturalist and found pleasure in photographing all the natural beauty on his farm.
Retirement allowed David to enjoy working on his farm, raising Nubian goats, hunting and fishing. Most of all, he loved writing. He completed and published two novels, three books of short stories, and two books of poetry.
Private services will be held at a later time. The Browning-Duffer Funeral Home in Keysville, VA, is serving the family.
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RoBerta Kamps
Meeting Dave at Tennessee Tech in the last half of the 70s, I remember Dave as the smartest man I ever met, yet he never made me feel less of a person, was so friendly and always made us laugh. He became such a dear friend and mentor of my first husband John that lasted for decades and for that I am grateful. Dave will be missed, but I am assured we will all be together again where there are no tears, ill-will, pain or sadness. Take heart, the best is yet to come.
Lorene Wendelin
My deepest condolences to Joanne, Matt and all of David’s family and friends! I loved the funny stories in one of his books! I know he’ll be missed by many!
Alison Barrett
Sorry for your loss. Have such great memories of your family in Attleboro
fran & dottie
A great neighbor & friend. Whenever we had a question about anything we would always go to David for the answer. :..he always had it! RIP Condolences to Joann & Matthew.
Sharon L Cramer
Dave, you were truly one of a kind. I’ve always admired your humor, intellect, and knowledge of so many subjects. I remember that you once told me, while working on your doctorate, that your goal was to be a Guatemalan goat farmer. I’m glad that part of your wish came true. You will be missed by the Penn State family who think the world of you. Jo Ann, I am thinking about you and your lovely family.
Sheri