James David "Big Dave" Brittain, age 64 of Smyrna, TN, died Tuesday March 12, 2013. A native of Smyrna, TN, he was the son of the late David Ellis and Clara Sue Jones Brittain. He was also preceded in death by a brother, Paul Shipp "Red" Brittain. Mr. Brittain is survived by his daughter, Jennifer Lynn Brittain of Smyrna, TN; son, David Evan Brittain and his wife Shanna of Manchester, TN; brothers, William Seth " Pee Wee" Brittain and his wife Penny of Lewisburg, TN, and a very dear brother, Charles Edward Brittain and his wife Sue of Smyrna, TN; sisters, Betty Steele Brittain and Sally Virginia Walls both of Smyrna, TN; grandchildren, Kathryn Steele Brittain, Alek Wolfgang Oberkirsch, Crista Michelle Brittain, and Amanda Danyaile Brittain; several nieces and nephews, and a very special niece, Ashlea Autumn French. Funeral service will be 2:00 PM Saturday at Woodfin Chapel, Smyrna. Burial will follow in Mapleview Cemetery with family and friends serving as pallbearers. Mr. Brittain was of the Church of Christ faith and was a retired as a machinist with Hennessy Industries. He was a leader of the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 105, and member of the Tennessee Jaycees' serving in the Colonels Corps. For several years, Mr. Brittain was Santa Claus for the city of Smyrna in all events and the parade. He also was Santa Claus for the Jaycees', and did many charitable acts. He once took the Boy Scout Troop, 105 to Washington, D.C. and funded the trip for a week with his own money. As Santa Claus, he was told by a little boy, the only thing for Christmas he wanted was to have his electricity turn on. Santa Claus granted his wish by paying the electric bill. Mr. Brittain was a very talented artist, wood carver, and storyteller, and chased away burglars. He was the very best "Papa" in the world. Visitation will be from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM Friday at WOODFIN FUNERAL CHAPEL, SMYRNA. 459-3254. Online condolences may be made at www.woodfinchapel.com.