1 Kings 1:6 God fearing people like David and Samuel were used by God to lead nations they had family problems just like we do today. David served God well as king, but as a parent he often failed God and his children.
Elijah was taken to Heaven without dying. He is the second person in scripture to have this honor. 2 Kings 2:11 The only person to be taken to Heaven in bodily form was Jesus after his resurrection from the dead.