David Joe Elder

David J. Elder, 79, of Jonesboro, died Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at St. Bernards Regional Medical Center. He had resided in Jonesboro for over 35 years. He was born on October 30, 1946, in Manhattan, Kansas to Royal and Shirley Elder. He was a commercial truck driver for many years. Having served in the US Air Force during the Vietnam War, he was proud of his service and his country. David was excited to be a member of the National Rifle Association. His hobbies included many science type experiments and proving and disproving his theories. Model airplanes were a pastime he found relaxing. According to his family, he was very big on DIY projects. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Carol.

Survivors include his daughter, Shannon Clark of Jonesboro; brothers, Steve Elder of Topeka, Kansas; Kelley Elder of Kentucky; grandchildren, Gavin Clark, and Brianna Goodman; great grandchildren, Jacob Holland and Christian Holland.

A Memorial service will be announced at a later date. For lasting memorials, please consider the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516. To sign an online guestbook, go to emersonfuneralhome.com.