​Remembering a Dynamic Easterseals Leader: David Hood

David Hood and Sheryl Cook in 2006 on the day he was honored with the Lily Award.

One of Easterseals Northeast Central Florida‘s biggest champions for the past several decades has been David Hood. We learned earlier this week that David passed away with his family by his side. We at Easterseals are heartbroken at this news, while at the same time we continue to be grateful for his life, legacy and all he’s accomplished for our Easterseals families.

David was an incredible leader in Easterseals gift planning initiatives, and through his personal dedication and widely embraced leadership style, helped Easterseals realize some of its most spectacular wishes and dreams. David’s leadership made possible Easterseals Autism Center of Excellence, Easterseals Charter School, Easterseals Tennis Everyone! program, and Easterseals nearly $3 million capital campaign, which he co-chaired with the late Gloria Cook.

And, this is just the beginning of what David helped Easterseals achieve since he became a volunteer director more than three decades ago. 

After serving as a board member, chairman of the board, and honorary director, David was named an Honorary Life Director. He also was a recipient of the Lily award, Easterseals Northeast Central Florida’s highest local honor.
 
It may go without saying that David also was a generous financial supporter of Easterseals, not only during its community-wide campaign drives, but also privately and behind the scenes when specific needs have arisen. David is the kind of leader who asks, “What does Easterseals need most right now?” and his heart led his service.
Easterseals President & CEO Bev Johnson continues to see David’s legacy of caring leadership at Easterseals.
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“When I first joined the organization and let people know I worked for Easterseals they all asked how David was,” said Bev. “He was so passionate about Easterseals that the mention of the organization almost seemed to automatically connect him to it.

“While I didn’t enjoy the privilege of knowing him personally, he certainly left a legacy of kindness and caring for our clients and the families who love them,” she added.

Former Easterseals President & CEO Lynn Sinnott remembers David with reverence and affection. 

“David Hood demonstrated his commitment to individuals with disabilities in many ways. He served on the Easterseals board in many capacities, including the chairman of the board, board chair for the newly established Easterseals Charter School, and co-chair of the Capital Campaign Committee that raised $2.7 million for the renovation and expansion of the Easterseals facility on Dunn Avenue,” said Lynn. “David shared his business and leadership expertise with board and staff, serving as my mentor when I first started at Easterseals.  

“In addition, David was a major donor, helping Easterseals start several major programs that changed the lives of individuals with special needs,” added Lynn. “I know he will truly be missed in the Daytona community.”
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Our thoughts and prayers are with David’s family during this difficult time. Easterseals Northeast Central Florida always will be indebted to this great man, humbled by his servant leadership and forever transformed by his passion. He will be greatly missed. 

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