David Mackey Waugh

David Mackey Waugh passed away unexpectedly in his sleep at the age of 32 in the early hours of Thursday, June 18th, 2026, in Knoxville, Tennessee, surrounded by his cats. He was a beloved brother, friend, son, and coworker, as well as a therapist and social worker who served his clients with compassion and kindness.

David was born on September 22nd, 1993 to Anne Mackey Kimble and Steve William Waugh. He was a talented artist, a brilliant researcher, a clever gamer, and a compassionate therapist. He grew up in Knoxville, graduated from Hardin Valley Academy in 2012, and went on to attend Pellissippi State Community College. He then transferred to the University of Tennessee, where he earned his BA in Psychology and Sociology. He earned his Master of Science in Psychology from the University of Memphis and continued to do research after graduation, with a focus on making therapy more accessible to everyone who needs it. He worked as a therapist at Helen Ross McNabb, providing life-changing care to people who needed it most.

David Waugh was one of the kindest people most of us had ever met, to the point where people often stood around saying nice things about him behind his back. He brought his wonderful energy to tabletop RPGs and anime watch sessions and foam sword battles, but could also hold deep conversations without judgment. He made time for everyone and inspired those around him to be better versions of themselves. Most importantly, he was an amazing, supportive brother who helped raise his younger sister, Taylor. He will be dearly missed.

He is survived by his sister, Taylor Anne Kimble; his mother, Anne Mackey Kimble; his father, Steve William Waugh; his stepmother, Mitzi Malone; his grandmother, Pattie Sue Waugh; his aunts and uncles, Tereasa Bowling, Donnie Bowling, Mark Waugh, and Donna Waugh; his cousins Matthew Waugh, Ava Waugh, Brad Bowling, Adrienne Bowling, Lilly Bowling, Kristen Garcia, and Jerry Garcia; his best friend, Robyn Dodd; and his cats, Ginger and Damon.

There will be a viewing for close friends and family on Thursday, June 25th at 4pm, and a celebration of David’s life at West Emory Presbyterian Church on 1035 Emory Church Rd in Knoxville, TN on Saturday, June 27th at 11:00 A.M. Eastern Time.