WILMINGTON — Richard “Dana” McAtee, 78, of Wilmington, North Carolina, entered into the loving arms of Jesus Christ on July 14th, 2026, surrounded by his family. Dana will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, faithful servant of Christ, and a man whose life was marked by humility, generosity, and unwavering dedication to those he loved.
Dana graduated from New Hanover High School, where he proudly participated in the Army ROTC program and was a leader of the Cape Fear Rifles. During high school, he shared his love of broadcasting as a disc jockey for NHHS WILD radio station and later for radio stations WKLM and WGNI. He attended the University of North Carolina at Wilmington before beginning a distinguished career of more than 40 years at the General Electric Nuclear Engineering facility.
Dana’s faith in Jesus Christ was the foundation of his life. As a faithful member of Winter Park Baptist Church for more than six decades, he quietly and faithfully served behind the scenes as a leader of the church’s television ministry. His dedication made it possible for countless worship services to be broadcast on Wilmington’s local TBN station, extending the ministry of the church far beyond its walls. He considered this service a privilege and an important part of his calling.
Dana was also deeply passionate about aviation and military history. As a licensed pilot, he found great joy in flying and sharing his love of aviation with others. He was an integral member of the volunteer crew responsible for maintaining and flying the “Spirit of North Carolina”, a beautifully restored and highly decorated 1944 Douglas A-26C Invader attack bomber. Through appearances at military air shows across the region, Dana and his fellow crew members helped preserve and share the stories of the Greatest Generation, ensuring that an important chapter of American history would never be forgotten.
Above all else, Dana’s greatest joy was his family. He was a loving husband to his wife, Bernice McAtee, and a caring father to Marissa Swart (Eric Swart), Meridith McAtee Walters, and Michael McAtee. He lovingly embraced Bernice’s children, Beverly Ladd (Robert Ladd) and Bob Pearson (Robyn Pearson), as his own. He is also survived by his beloved sister, Jennifer Meier. Nothing brought him greater happiness than spending time with his grandchildren: Ella and Walter Swart, William and Grace Walters, and Abigail and Noah Pearson.
Those who knew Dana will remember his quiet strength, steady character, willingness to serve, and genuine kindness. Whether helping his church, caring for his family, or preserving history for future generations, he lived a life defined by faith, humility, and purpose.
His legacy lives on through the family he loved, the church he faithfully served, the many friends whose lives he touched, and the countless people who were blessed by his example.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23
The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Cape Fear LifeCare for their exceptional compassion and care. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Cape Fear LifeCare in Dana’s memory.
