David Richard English, Esteemed Educator and Family Man, Passes Away

David Richard English, a respected member of the Sneads, Florida community, passed away at his home on August 18, 2025, after a prolonged battle with cancer. Surrounded by his family, David’s life was marked by dedication to education, mental health, and his deep love for family and friends.

Born on September 30, 1950, in Lansing, Michigan, David was the son of Caroline Elizabeth English and George Edward English. His upbringing was shaped by his father’s career in the U.S. Air Force, leading the family to move across various states before settling in Florida when David was ten years old. This state became his lifelong home, where he would establish his roots and build a fulfilling career.

Educational and Professional Achievements

David’s academic journey began at Durrance Elementary School and continued through Oak Ridge High School. He later attended the University of Florida in Gainesville, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1972 and a Master of Education degree in 1980. His commitment to education and mental health led him to a long career serving individuals with disabilities. He worked at the Orlando Sunland Center, followed by positions at the Sunland Center in Gainesville and Marianna, ultimately serving at the Florida State Hospital in Chattahoochee.

In addition to his career in mental health, David was also an entrepreneur, successfully running a chestnut farm known as L&E Farms. His entrepreneurial spirit reflected his diverse interests and dedication to community service.

Family and Personal Passions

David was a devoted father to his two daughters, Elizabeth Ann English and Jennifer Lynn English. Elizabeth, who is engaged to William Pineda, resides in Sanford, Florida, while Jennifer currently lives in Cheongju, South Korea. He is also survived by his sisters, Marti C. English and Laurie A. English, and his half-brother, Peter Hamlett.

Throughout his life, David had a passion for several activities that brought him joy. He was an avid enthusiast of Porsche vehicles and proudly supported the Florida Gators. His love for golf led him to play on courses across the United States, sharing many memorable moments with his friends. Additionally, he enjoyed attending races, often camping with his friends at the track as part of a group affectionately known as Team Mimosa.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Emerald Coast Hospice and Stethoscope Staffing, LLC for their compassionate care of David during his final days.

A celebration of David’s life will be organized at a later date, inviting all who knew and cared for him to honor his memory. A private funeral service will be held in Bad Axe, Michigan, also scheduled for a future date. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the Machen Florida Opportunity Scholarship, which supports Florida high school students pursuing education at the University of Florida.

David Richard English’s legacy will be remembered through the impact he made on the lives of many, both personally and professionally. His dedication to family, education, and community service will leave a lasting imprint on those who were fortunate enough to know him.