Royal David
Royal is a second-generation funeral director, having been inspired by his father, Dennis David. Royal is a native of New Iberia, Louisiana and was a 1979 graduate of Catholic High School in New Iberia. In 1981, he graduated from Commonwealth College of Sciences (now known as Commonwealth College of Funeral Service) as Salutatorian of his class.
He first pursued funeral service experience working for his father’s funeral home in New Iberia in 1981, eventually serving as president of the company for 20 years. Under his leadership, they expanded to eight chapel locations.
Royal is married to the former Elizabeth Imbraguglio, and they have six children: Kemp, Dexter, Mason, Andre, Peyton, and Sarah.
In February 2013 Royal became a resident of Rocky Mount, NC, along with his wife and all six of his kids, when he bought Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home and Cremation Services. In March of 2016, he also bought Johnson Funeral Home and Cremation Services and Rocky Mount Memorial Park.
In February of 2013, along with his son, Kemp, Royal became licensed in North Carolina as funeral directors and embalmers. His other son, Dexter, is servicing his apprenticeship to become a funeral director in North Carolina.
The Academy of Professional Funeral Service Practice has certified Royal with the designation of Certified Funeral Service Practitioner (CFSP). He has also been certified by the National Funeral Directors Association as a Certified Preplanning Consultant (CPC). He is a member of the National Funeral Directors Association and Cremation Association of North America.
He is a member of the Rocky Mount Rotary Club, a Rotary International Paul Harris Fellow and Rotary International Benefactor and the Rocky Mount Elks Lodge #1038. He has also been involved in numerous community service projects.
From the moment we contacted Wheeler and Woodlief Funeral Services, we were met with compassion, professionalism, and a level of care that brought us tremendous peace during a difficult time. Every detail was handled with grace and dignity, and their team ensured our loved one was honored in the most respectful way possible. Our pastor, who has officiated many services over the years, shared that this was the most kind, professional, and organized service he had ever been a part of—and we couldn't agree more. From the quiet support behind the scenes to the seamless coordination of every aspect of the ceremony, their attention to detail was unmatched. We are deeply grateful to the entire staff at Wheeler and Woodlief. They made a painful experience easier with their warmth, guidance, and dedication. Thank you for helping us celebrate a life well-lived with such honor and love.