David Jurlina

David Jurlina, 52, of Easley, South Carolina, passed away on Friday, October 25, 2024. 

Born in Queens, New York, he was a son of Marija Skibola Jurlina and the late Krsto Jurlina. Those who had the pleasure of knowing David can attest that his sense of humor was so contagious, it should have come with a warning label. His jokes, delivered with a glint in his eye and a smile that could warm the coldest of days, were often coupled with the delightful sincerity of a man who would indeed give you the shirt off his back. David never ended a conversation without a heartfelt “I Love You” He was that friend who could lighten the mood in any room, and his forgiving nature meant that many of us came away from our interactions feeling just a bit better about ourselves—even if we sometimes found ourselves laughing at his puns more than we probably should have.

David was a devoted dad, and his love for his daughter and son was apparent to anyone and everyone. His nurturing ways made him the ultimate “Big Teddy Bear,” ready to provide comfort, encouragement, and perhaps too many dad jokes at the most inappropriate times. The number of times he embraced the title of “Dad” while also redefining it with his goofy spirit is truly nothing short of remarkable.

In addition to family, David had an undeniable affection for dogs, which means he also always had something soft to cuddle with when he wasn’t submerging himself in his favorite history movies. One could find him lounging with a furry friend by his side, passionately explaining why the Battle of Gettysburg was the real home run of American history (though we suspect this was inspired by his fondness for making everything tie back to baseball).

In addition to his mother, David is survived by his two children, Gabriella Jurlina, and Blake Vodopija of Bellport, New York; a brother, Valter Jurlina (Laura) of Long Island, New York; two sisters, Doris Lepore (Joseph) of Central, South Carolina, and Sabrina Wilcox (Jason) of Easley, South Carolina; six nieces and nephews, Krsto Wilcox, Jason Wilcox, Morgan Wilcox, Christian Lepore, Jack Jurlina, and Grace Jurlina; along with numerous cousins and other extended family members. 

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, October 30, 2024, from 1:00 PM until 2:45 PM at Robinson Funeral Home – Powdersville Road. A funeral service will follow at 3:00 PM in the funeral home chapel. 

Visit RobinsonFuneralHomes.com or Robinson Funeral Home & Crematory - Powdersville Road, Easley