Two lives, lived in different corners of the country, came to a close in early February 2026, leaving behind legacies stitched from hard work, devotion, and the kind of everyday joys that make a life meaningful. Virginia Pauline “Polly” Petty of Hagerstown, Maryland, and David William Metcalf of Conroe, Texas, both passed away within days of each other—Petty at the age of 94 on February 10, and Metcalf just shy of his 77th birthday on February 6. Their stories, though unique, share a common thread: a steadfast commitment to family, community, and simple pleasures.
According to The Herald-Mail, Virginia Pauline “Polly” Petty was born on July 7, 1931, in Hagerstown, Maryland, to John William and Blanche Inez (Ragland) Montgomery. A daughter of the Depression era, Polly’s early years were shaped by resilience and resourcefulness—traits that would serve her well throughout a long life. She began her working life as a waitress, a job that demanded both patience and a ready smile, before later finding employment at the Three Minute Car Wash. These were humble jobs, but they provided for her family and, as her loved ones recall, gave her a sense of pride and purpose.
Polly’s family was the center of her world. She is survived by three sons—Gregory L. Petty (and wife Patti), James M. Petty (and wife Patti), and Barry D. Petty (and wife Cheryl)—along with 12 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren. Her two brothers, Robert Montgomery and David Montgomery, also survive her. The family tree she helped nurture extends wide, and her influence is felt in each branch. As The Herald-Mail notes, she was preceded in death by her husband, Raymond Petty, as well as her longtime companion of 33 years, Charles Reeder, her son Raymond Petty Jr., two sisters, and two brothers. The loss of so many close family members over the years never dimmed Polly’s spirit.
Her passing was marked by the rituals of remembrance that bind communities together. A viewing is scheduled for Sunday, February 15, 2026, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Minnich Funeral Home in Hagerstown, with a funeral to follow the next day, officiated by CSM Larry Miller. Burial will take place at Locust Grove Cemetery. Online condolences are being accepted, offering those touched by Polly’s life a chance to share memories and support her family through their grief.
Meanwhile, in Conroe, Texas, the life of David William Metcalf was celebrated in an obituary published by The Courier of Montgomery County. Born on February 13, 1949, David passed away quietly in his sleep on February 6, 2026, just a week before his 77th birthday. Known for his gregarious personality, infectious smile, and adventurous spirit, David’s life was a tapestry of creativity, community involvement, and unwavering faith.
David’s talents were many and varied. He enjoyed acting, writing, and photography—creative pursuits that allowed him to express his vibrant inner life. He even dabbled in carving and stained glass, always eager to try something new. According to The Courier of Montgomery County, David loved working in the garden with his father-in-law and his daughter, Linsey. He was particularly fond of frying okra harvested from the garden using his mother’s recipe, and he cherished eating watermelons with his grandchildren, Maddie and Landon. These simple pleasures were the moments he treasured most.
Golf was another passion, especially when shared with his son, Ryan. The two often played together at the Llano Municipal Golf Course, strengthening the bonds of family through friendly competition and laughter. David’s love for performance extended beyond the family circle; he earned a degree in Drama from Baylor University and set out for New York City to pursue acting. Although he came close to landing a role in a soap opera, he ultimately decided that his true desire was to have a wife and family—a dream that led him back to Conroe. There, he remained active in the Conroe Little Theatre and sang with the Conroe Chorale, even delivering a memorable solo of “New York, New York.”
His career path was as diverse as his interests. David spent much of his working life at Metcalf Funeral Home but also owned a mini-warehouse complex, The Photo Lab photography store, and several other businesses. Later in life, he produced a film that was accepted by and screened at the Austin Film Festival—a testament to his enduring creative drive. He was also deeply involved in community events and service organizations, playing a key role in bringing the traveling Vietnam Wall Memorial to Lufkin during his time at Gipson-Metcalf Funeral Home.
But for all his accomplishments, David’s priorities were clear: faith and family came first. “His greatest priority was his faith in Jesus Christ, which he successfully modeled to his two children, Ryan and Linsey,” The Courier of Montgomery County reported. His marriage to Suzanne, his soulmate of 47 years, was a foundation for a close-knit family that included children, grandchildren, siblings, and a wide circle of nieces and nephews. The last few years of his life were filled with pride as he watched Maddie run track and dance, and Landon play soccer and perform in school plays. David’s love for Conroe, the town where he grew up, and for the friends he made there, remained strong throughout his life.
David was preceded in death by his father, Leo T. Metcalf, Jr., mother Barbara Metcalf Bateman, second dad Morris Bateman, Sr., stepbrother Morris Bateman, Jr., and brother-in-law Ronnie Eikenberg. He is survived by his wife Suzanne, son Ryan and daughter-in-law Chrissi, daughter Linsey, sister Babette Eikenberg, brothers Leo T. Metcalf, III and Mary Ann, Richard Metcalf, grandchildren Maddie and Landon, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Both obituaries, published online on February 11, 2026, offer a window into the lives of two individuals whose stories, though separated by geography and circumstance, reflect the values of their generation. Hard work, devotion to family, and a willingness to serve others—these were the cornerstones of lives well lived. The details may differ—Polly’s years as a waitress and car wash employee, David’s adventures in acting and business—but the underlying themes are strikingly similar. Each found joy in the everyday: a meal shared with loved ones, a round of golf, a song sung from the heart.
As friends and family gather in Hagerstown and Conroe to remember Polly and David, their stories serve as reminders that a meaningful life is not measured by fame or fortune, but by the love we give and receive. Their memories will linger in the laughter of grandchildren, the warmth of shared meals, and the quiet moments of reflection that follow loss. In honoring their lives, their communities affirm the enduring value of kindness, creativity, and connection.