David North Reams, age 93, passed away peacefully on August 24, 2025, in Mount Dora, Florida. Born on January 6, 1932, in Franklin, Tennessee, he lived a life marked by service, scholarship, and steadfast devotion to his family. Whether you knew him as Mr., Dr., Coach, or Major, you were exposed and influenced by his dedication and commitment to providing a positive influence and betterment of whatever task he was given.

He joined the US Air Force out of high school. After serving 4 years on active duty, he received a football scholarship to Florida State University. A proud veteran, David continued his service in the A.F. Reserves and retired with the rank of Major. His military career was characterized by discipline and dedication, qualities that would continue to define him throughout his life.

David pursued higher education with distinction. He earned his Master's degree in Physical Education from Florida State University and went on to complete his Doctorate in Education at Texas A&M University. His academic achievements laid the foundation for a remarkable career in public education that spanned decades.

While at FSU, David met his future wife, Patricia Zech, also a physical education major. They were married for 66 years and together they built a home grounded in mutual respect and encouragement. He was a loving husband and a devoted father to Robert and Carolyn. One of his most enduring legacies was the freedom and encouragement he gave his family to develop their own identities without pressure or expectation. He supported their dreams wholeheartedly, always encouraging them to pursue what brought them joy.

David was employed by Dade County Public Schools for more than 40 years. David served as a teacher, a curriculum writer and a District Supervisor of a number of programs. He specialized in developing physical education programs for students with special needs. His influence extended across all levels of education from elementary P.E. to college education classes. He was always building and developing new and challenging programs on all levels. His last position as Supervisor of the JROTC program was a perfect ending to his career in education. It brought together his experience with the Military and his physical education background.

The Christmas Season was when David's creative side came out. His Christmas letters, his decorations that filled the house and our "Twixt" (that's Tennessee for betwixt) parties were enjoyed by colleagues, friends and family.

David is remembered fondly by his nieces and nephews in Tennessee who were part of the extended family that cherished him deeply. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Mary Elisabeth Sweeney; and brother-in-law, John Sweeney.

Despite living decades in south Florida, he never lost his TN drawl or his sense of country humor. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and serve as a lasting reminder of a life well lived.