David Poythress: A Legacy of Public Service in Georgia
David Bryan Poythress was a distinguished American politician and military leader who dedicated several decades to the state of Georgia. From high-ranking executive roles in state government to leadership within the military, Poythress left a significant mark on the administrative and security landscape of his home state.
Key Facts
- Born: October 24, 1943, in Bibb County, Georgia.
- Died: January 15, 2017, in Cartersville, Georgia.
- Political Party: Democratic.
- Key Roles: 22nd Secretary of State of Georgia and Commissioner of Labor.
- Military Rank: Retired Lieutenant General.
- Education: Alumnus of Emory University and member of the Sigma Chi fraternity.
Political Career and State Leadership
Poythress held two of the most influential administrative positions in Georgia's state government. He served as the 22nd Secretary of State from May 19, 1979, to January 11, 1983, under Governor George Busbee. In this role, he succeeded Benjamin W. Fortson Jr. and was eventually succeeded by Max Cleland.
Later in his political career, Poythress transitioned to the labor sector, serving as the Georgia Commissioner of Labor from 1993 to 1999. He took over the office from Al Scott and was succeeded by Michael Thurmond.
Military Service and the National Guard
Beyond his civilian political roles, Poythress had an extensive military career with the United States Air Force. He reached the high rank of Lieutenant General upon his retirement.
One of his most prominent military assignments was serving as the Adjutant General—the highest-ranking military officer in the state—of the Georgia National Guard. He held this position from 1999 until 2007. His leadership in this capacity was recognized across different political administrations, as he was initially appointed by Governor Roy Barnes and later reappointed by Governor Sonny Perdue.
Gubernatorial Campaigns
Poythress sought the state's highest office on two separate occasions. In 1998, he ran for Governor of Georgia but was unsuccessful. He announced a second bid as a Democratic candidate for the 2010 election. In both the 1998 and 2010 contests, Poythress was defeated by Roy Barnes.
Personal Life and Legacy
A native of Bibb County, Poythress was a graduate of Emory University. He was married to Elizabeth Poythress, and together they had three children and eight grandchildren.
David Poythress passed away on January 15, 2017, at the age of 73. He was laid to rest at Riverside Cemetery in Macon, Georgia.
| Role/Position | Tenure/Period | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| Secretary of State of Georgia | 1979–1983 | 22nd Secretary of State |
| Commissioner of Labor | 1993–1999 | Succeeded Al Scott |
| Adjutant General, GA National Guard | 1999–2007 | Appointed by Barnes and Perdue |
| Military Rank | Retired | Lieutenant General, US Air Force |
Frequently Asked Questions
What political offices did David Poythress hold in Georgia?
David Poythress served as the 22nd Secretary of State of Georgia (1979–1983) and as the Georgia Commissioner of Labor (1993–1999).
What was David Poythress's highest military rank?
He retired from the United States Air Force with the rank of Lieutenant General.
Did David Poythress ever serve as Governor of Georgia?
No. While he ran for Governor in 1998 and 2010, he was unsuccessful in both bids, losing to Roy Barnes.
Who appointed Poythress as the Adjutant General of the Georgia National Guard?
He was initially appointed by Governor Roy Barnes and subsequently reappointed by Governor Sonny Perdue.
Where was David Poythress born and where is he buried?
He was born in Bibb County, Georgia, and is interred at Riverside Cemetery in Macon, Georgia.