David H. Landreth

David H. Landreth, 77, passed away January 25, 2026 at his home surrounded by his loved ones.

Cremation has taken place. Graveside services for family and friends are scheduled for 2:00 PM, Monday, February 16, 2026 at Carlsbad Cemetery Gazebo, Carlsbad, NM with Nick Walker, officiating. Denton-Wood Funeral Home is in charge of all the arrangements. Carlsbad Veteran Honor Guard will provide military honors.

David was born on October 26, 1948 in Ada, Oklahoma to Vernon Ezell and Vera Alice (Hallum) Landreth. The family moved to Artesia, NM where David graduated from Artesia High School in 1966. He lettered in football wearing jersey number 71 and had the heart of a Bulldog. David graduated from Eastern New Mexico University with a Bachelor of Science and later a master’s in mathematics. He married Mary McGuinness August 23, 1969 in Artesia, NM. He was a mathematics teacher over 30 years teaching at Carlsbad Mid-High, Carlsbad High School and NMSU-Carlsbad. Many of his high school students knew him as “Sheriff Dave”.

During his military service, he was stationed at Ft. Devens, MA teaching electronics. David had a high-level security clearance in the Army Security Agency.

David is preceded in death by his parents, brothers Vernon Landreth and Raymond Landreth, sister, BettyLou Landreth.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Landreth; son, Charles Landreth and wife, Sarah; grandchildren: Sophia Kamermans, Isaac Landreth, George Landreth, Rosalie Landreth; sister-in-law, Pat Landreth; nephews, Tommy and William Landreth; niece, Sherri Landreth and her sons, Nick Walker and Fisher Walker. David also leaves behind extended family in Oklahoma. He was a member of the Choctaw Tribe.

Condolences may be expressed at dentonwood.com