WORTHINGTON, David C., M.D., 72, of Brandon, died peacefully at home Friday, July 22, 2005.

He is survived by his loving wife of more than 40 years, Verna Lou (Simmons); two daughters, Katherine Nelsen (Keith) and Kimberly Anderson (Scott); two beloved grandchildren, Max and Gracie; his niece, Meredith (Rhodes) Pecci (Matt); sister-in-law, Carol Adcock; nephews, John and Chuck Adcock; and countless friends and colleagues. He was preceded in death by his sister, Beth Ann, and his parents, Raymond and Beth.

He was a dutiful son and loving brother, and was always proud of his family and their Pennsylvania roots. Dr. Worthington was born and raised in Media, Pa., graduated from Dickinson College in 1955 and Temple University Medical School in 1961.

He came to Tampa in 1961 to perform his surgical residency at Tampa General Hospital, where he was the chief surgical resident from 1964-1965. Following his residency, he began his practice in Tampa, working at Tampa General, St. Joseph's and Universi ty Community Hospitals where he became the chief of surgery. In 1977, he became the first surgeon and admitted the first patient at Brandon Regional Hospital where he was a true medical pioneer and a major contributor to the success of the hospital, which continues today.

He served for more than a decade as the chairman of the department of surgery at Brandon Regional Hospital and its chief of staff from 1980-1981. He also served as chairman of the board of trustees in 1986 and was a member of the American Medical Association. Dr. Worthington was instrumental in the development of the hospital's operating facilities and the recruitment of many fine physicians and staff which serve the hospital and its patients today. He was one of the most beloved and dedicated physicians at the hospital and in the community.

He practiced medicine with the utmost integrity and compassion, and is held in the highest regard by those who worked with and were treated by him. Dr. Worthington was an exceptional an d talented man with a beautiful sense of humor. He loved music, poetry, art, nature, history and athletics, among many other things. He genuinely cared about people and their lives, and ardently sought the good in everyone. He adored the land and its creatures, and treated our natural gifts with enormous respect.

He was a wonderful husband to his wife, Verna Lou, father to his daughters, Kathy and Kim, and more recently, proud grandfather to Gracie and Max, who provided him with incredible joy. He was also a faithful friend and mentor to many. He gave far more to this world than he ever asked of or took from it and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A celebration of Dr. Worthington's life will be held 11 a.m. Tuesday, July 26, 2005, at Palma Ceia Presbyterian Church, 3501 W. San Jose St., Tampa, with a reception to follow at the church. The family gives thanks to the Rev. John DeBevoise, who will officiate the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Dr. Worthington's name to the National Kidney Foundation of Florida at 1040 Woodcock Road, Suite 119, Orlando, FL 32803.