Bub Carlton

(From Walnut Lawn Funeral Home)

David "Bub" Lee Carlton II, 64, passed away on January 12, 2026, in Springfield, Missouri. A man of unwavering integrity and boundless heart, Bub lived a life defined by devotion—to his family, his faith, his work, and his community.

Born on June 1, 1961, in Pittsburg, Kansas, Bub grew up with a love for baseball and a deep sense of responsibility that would guide him throughout his life. He graduated from Joplin Parkwood High School and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from Missouri Southern in Joplin, Missouri. Never one to stop learning or striving for excellence, he later became a Certified Public Accountant.

Bub dedicated over 35 years of service to Price Cutter in administration. Through hard work and steady leadership, he rose to become the Vice President of Human Resources and Property Management. Though he held an executive title, Bub was known for telling people he “watered the lettuce”. His colleagues knew him as someone who showed up every day with purpose and compassion.

Beyond the workplace, Bub was deeply involved in the Springfield community. He served as an active board member for several local organizations and was a devoted member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church for more than 35 years. His faith was central to his life and evident in the way he treated others—with kindness, generosity, and grace.

Family was everything to Bub. He is lovingly remembered by his wife of 40 years, Donna Carlton (Wilson), daughter Stephanie Young, son David "Trey" Carlton III and his wife Emily; and grandchildren Brynlee "Pearl" Young, Haven "Opal" Young, and Theodore "Teddy" Carlton—each affectionately nicknamed by Bub himself. To them and many others who knew him as “Bubba,” he was a source of strength, laughter, and unconditional love.

He also leaves behind his siblings: Greg Carlton, Travis Carlton, and Kelly Carlton; along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends who were like family. He was preceded in death by his parents David Lee Carlton and Karen Kay Carlton (Wickware).

Bub’s passions were as wide-ranging as they were heartfelt. A lifelong baseball player—from little league through college—he continued playing well into adulthood and even competed for many seasons in the Men's Senior League World Series in Arizona as a catcher. Friday mornings were reserved for “The Breakfast Club,” a cherished tradition with baseball buddies whose friendships spanned decades.

An avid Notre Dame fan—whom he proudly called “God’s Team”—Bub also found joy in duck hunting, fishing quiet waters, and scouring garage sales for hidden treasures and wooden ducks to add to his collection. He also enjoyed golfing with friends and family, which would often lead to fishing the golf course ponds when he wasn’t teeing off. Whatever the activity, if it brought people together or gave him a chance to share a laugh or lend a hand—it had Bub’s heart.

Those who knew him will remember a man who made everyone feel safe and valued simply by being present. He didn’t know a stranger; instead he offered warmth with every handshake or smile. Dependable to the core and selfless without fanfare—he lived not just with strength but with kindness.

May the memory of David "Bub" Lee Carlton II bring comfort to all who had the privilege of knowing him—and may we carry forward his legacy of showing up fully for those we love.

A visitation will be held Thursday, January 15th, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, followed by Mass at 11 a.m. The family also invites loved ones and friends to join them at The Springfield Cardinals Stadium at 1 p.m. to celebrate the life of David “Bub” Lee Carlton II.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude’s in Bub’s honor.