David Julius Petcu

Dr. David Julius Petcu, 67, passed away suddenly but peacefully on October 6, 2025, in Nashville, Tennessee. A dedicated physician and beloved member of the community, David lived a life defined by kindness, integrity, and quiet strength.

Born on May 27, 1958, in Chicago, Illinois, to Pearl and Julius Petcu, David was raised in the Orthodox Christian faith—a spiritual foundation that remained central throughout his life. He spent most of his childhood living in Philadelphia where he formed a life-long allegiance to the Phillies, the Eagles, and love of cheese steaks. He studied at the University of Chicago, the University of Pennsylvania, and completed his residency in anesthesiology at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania.

David devoted his professional career to caring for patients in Nashville at Anesthesia Medical Group (AMG), which later became US Anesthesia Partners. Most of his work was at St. Thomas West Hospital, where colleagues share that he was a respected presence known for his clinical precision, mentorship, and camaraderie. He also served on AMG’s leadership board for many years.

Outside of medicine, David embraced life’s simple joys: a good whiskey, strong coffee, hot pretzels or a single square of dark chocolate. He loved a good western movie, a fleece beanie, watching baseball while keeping score cards, traveling with his family, exploring Tennessee’s countryside, relaxing on the South Carolina coast, and spending time with his dogs. He had a shy, sly smile, and a ruddy, silent laugh that made others laugh even louder. He was a lifelong learner, avid reader, and took pride in hard work. A committed member of the Boy Scouts of America, David supported youth development both as a father and mentor. He was a distinguished leader as an Eagle Scout, member of the Order of the Arrow, Woodbadge Course director, Den Leader, Troop 87 Scoutmaster, National Jamboree Scoutmaster, and Member of the James West Society. He also received many distinguished scout awards including the Long Rifle Award, Silver Beaver Award, and the National Eagle Scout Association’s Distinguished Eagle Award. Additionally, for 35 years, he was an active member of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Nashville, serving faithfully on the parish council, committees and contributing deeply to church life.

David is survived by his beloved wife of 43 years, Julie Najjar Petcu; their children Anna Sweeney (Andy), Timothy (Emily), and Michael (Kourtney); six grandchildren: Ben, Tilly,

Clara, Elliot, Edwin, and Teddy; his brother Lou Petcu (Nancy Westermann), and many other family members. He was preceded in death by his parents.

David’s family will receive visitors on Sunday, October 12 from 2pm-5pm at Harpeth Hills Memory Gardens Funeral Home, 9090 Highway 100, Nashville, TN 37221. A Trisagion memorial service will start at 2pm. The funeral service will be held on Monday, October 13 at 10:30am at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 4905 Franklin Pike, Nashville, TN 37220.

May his memory be eternal and bring comfort to all who knew him. Donations in his memory can be made to Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church or the Friends of Warner Parks.