David Wayne Young

David Wayne Young, 56, of Monett, Missouri, passed away on March 14, 2026.

Born on June 20, 1969, in Harrison, Arkansas, David grew up in Green Forest and graduated from Green Forest High School in 1987 as a proud member of the “wolf pack.” From an early age he embraced the values of hard work, faith, and family that would shape his entire life. He went on to earn a degree in Business Administration from the College of the Ozarks, where he met Stefanie, the love of his life. They married on July 18, 1992, and built a devoted partnership grounded in love, faith, and shared humor. David later earned a Master of Business Administration from William Woods University.

For 35 years David worked at Tyson Foods, where his dedication and leadership allowed him to work in every department of poultry growout and processing. He advanced to complex manager in both Monett and Corydon, Indiana, before joining Cobb-Vantress as a Genetics Excellence Processing Specialist, traveling the world to consult with poultry companies. At the time of his passing he served as vice president of operations for The Best Dressed Chicken, a brand of the Jamaica Broilers Group.

Above all, David was most proud of his role as husband, father, and “pops.” He cherished time with his family on their farm, taking his children Ashton, Jake, and Joby on hunting and fishing trips, mushroom hunting each spring, and teaching them respect for nature, gun safety, and wildlife conservation. He enjoyed traveling, deep-sea fishing, sampling new cuisines, cheering for the Arkansas Razorbacks, and competing in BBQ contests—most memorably preparing a tur-ducken that became a cherished family story. A man of deep faith and service, he participated in mission trips with Purdy Youth Alive, served on the Purdy School Board, and was a longtime member, trustee, and Sunday School teacher at First Free Will Baptist Church. In times of disaster he organized teams from Tyson Foods to deliver and cook chicken for affected communities.

David is survived by his loving wife, Stefanie Young; sons Joby Young and Jake Young; daughter Ashton Kramer and her husband Steven Kramer; grandson Noah Kramer; his father Carl Wayne Young and stepmother Sharon Young; his mother Barbara June Young; brothers Courtney Young and Darrell Young; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.