Gloucester - Gloucester - David F. Pye, 79, of Gloucester, passed away Saturday, May 3, at home with his wife by his side. Born in Malden, he was the adopted son of the late Marjorie (Wright) Pye. He was the loving husband of Laura Jewer Pye, his best friend and patient caregiver. They shared 36 years of marriage before his passing.

David was a graduate of Jamaica Plain High School, class of 1965. After high school, he served as a combat infantryman in the United States Army. He served in the 9th and 4th Infantry Division in Vietnam in 1967. Upon his return from Vietnam, he was assigned to the 5th Infantry Division and was sent to Washington D.C. on riot control duty after the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. David endured multiple medical issues resulting from his service in Vietnam and exposure to Agent Orange.

After David's time in the service, he served for many years in Mayor Kevin White's administration in Boston. Later, he left that job to pursue his commitment to veteran's advocacy and political activism. He was a member and leader of many veterans' organizations. David retired as Executive Director of North Shore Counseling Services in Beverly. David's motto was to help more people than he hurt. He was often quoted saying," Fight for justice, pray for peace."

David is survived by his wife, Laura Pye, for whom he was grateful for her love, kindness, care and their special relationship throughout their marriage. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews and their children. He adored them all.

David's funeral service will be at Campbell Funeral Home, 525 Cabot St., Beverly. on Monday, May 12, at 11:00am. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Burial will be at Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne on Tuesday, May 13, at 12:30pm. Information, directions, condolences at www.campbellfuneral.com.