David Arthur Deater, age 81, of Crawfordville, Florida, passed away on February 22, 2026.
David was born on March 15, 1944, in Baltimore, Maryland. David later moved with his family to Opa-Locka, Florida, where he grew up and graduated from Hialeah High School. A lifelong educator, coach, and devoted sports enthusiast, he spent more than three decades serving the students of Miami-Dade County Public Schools. From 1967 until his retirement in 2000, he worked as a teacher, guidance counselor, and coach, touching countless lives with his encouragement, support and steady presence.
After retiring, David moved to Crawfordville to be closer to his children and grandchildren. He loved playing golf, traveling, spending time outdoors, and enjoying the family cabin in North Carolina. Most of all, he cherished supporting his grandchildren in every endeavor and being present for the moments that mattered.
Known for his quick wit and ability to make others laugh, David never took life for granted. His greatest accomplishment was his family. He is survived by his wife of fifty-five years, Jane Deater; his daughters Alison (Scott) Bussey and Kimberly (Travis) Pelham; his grandchildren Chayton (Riley) Bussey, Caylie (Dylan) Atkins, Rhyan Pelham, Jaxon Pelham, and Cayden Bussey; and his great‑grandchildren Baker Bussey and Briar Atkins. He is also survived by his sister Barbara (Charles) Hopper; his sisters‑in‑law Arlene Cucco and Marian (Scott) Edwards; and his nieces and nephews Diane (Lance) Williams, Jacqueline Albanese, Linda (Brian) Ageeb, Thomas Albanese and Randi (Jeremy) Massey, along with numerous great‑nieces and great‑nephews and caregiver Gessica.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry “Hank” Deater and Beth “June” Deater; his brother, Reynold “Butch” Deater; and his niece, Sheri Hopper.