David Tony Harris Jr. was born on October 25, 1957, in Dreux, France, to David Harris Sr. and Christine Miller, who preceded him in death. From the very beginning, David was rooted in family, faith, and strength—qualities that would define his entire life. Though he was an only child, David was never alone. He grew up surrounded by a close-knit circle of cousins and lifelong friends who became his extended family.

David was raised in Warrensville Heights, Ohio, where he graduated from Warrensville Heights High School in June of 1975. During his school years, he was known for his athleticism and competitive spirit. He excelled in sports, took a special liking for football, and was also an avid chess player—demonstrating both physical strength and sharp intellect from an early age.

After high school, David enlisted in the United States Air Force and was stationed at Castle Air Force Base in California. He served his country honorably and was discharged in 1977, carrying forward the discipline, integrity, and work ethic that would guide him throughout his life.

Following his service, David moved to Lima, Ohio, where he began his professional career in computer software programming at National City Bank. His talent and dedication quickly led to a promotion into management, which took him to Baltimore, Maryland. Later, he returned to Ohio and worked at a power plant in Port Clinton before transitioning into a computer analyst role at Curtis Industries, where he worked from 1987 to 1996. David continued his career in technology at Sterling Commerce, where he served as an RPG programmer and software integration specialist from 1996 to 2002.

Though successful in the IT world, David eventually felt called to something more hands-on—something that allowed him to build, fix, and truly provide. That calling led him to his true passion and purpose: founding what is now known as Avision Property Management and Construction. This work allowed David to combine skill, creativity, and service, leaving tangible results that would stand for years to come.

David later settled in Cleveland Heights, a place where he became well known and deeply respected. He did not just live in the community—he invested in it. One citation at a time, as he would often joke, David worked tirelessly to make things better. He eventually retired from the City of Cleveland Heights in 2019 after serving as Chief Housing Inspector, a role that perfectly reflected his commitment to quality, accountability, and community pride.

Even in retirement, David never slowed down. He dedicated his later years to Avision, transforming home after home—some of those very homes belonging to people here today—leaving a piece of himself behind in every project. His work was not just construction; it was care, craftsmanship, and legacy.

More than anything else, David was a family man. He was a devoted father to five children. He was married to Diana Lockett, with whom he shared three children—David III, Dinah, and Dawn. He later married Kimberly Cooper, and together they welcomed two daughters—Ashley and Kristen. Nothing brought him greater joy than his thirteen grandchildren. He wore that pride openly. His family was his heart, his purpose, and his greatest legacy.

To his children, David was a real-life Superman and Iron Man—a man who embodied strength, perseverance, and unconditional love. Even through pain and suffering, he kept showing up. He worked hard, gave generously, and never complained. He took immense pride in his work because it allowed him to provide for his family, as he had always done.

He also loved pouring into his children beyond the home. David coached his son in Little League and later in football during his freshman year at Cleveland Heights High School in 1994—proudly standing on the sidelines, teaching not just the game, but discipline, teamwork, and heart. And it didn’t stop there. David made it a priority to show up for every family milestone and moment. From the births of his grandchildren to school plays, birthdays, sports practices, and games—you name it, Daddy and Grandpa was there, cheering, supporting, and loving his family in the way only he could.

David loved life and embraced it fully. He enjoyed traveling, golfing, boating, and swimming with his children during the summers. Being out on the water brought him peace, and he was a great captain. He also enjoyed building model cars, had a strong appreciation for music, and loved listening to Sade and Boney James. And anyone who truly knew David knew of his love for Malley’s Chocolate.

That love for life extended beyond his work and hobbies. David had a deep love for animals and always kept a pet, with a special place in his heart for dogs. His compassion reached beyond people—he believed in caring for all of God’s creation.

David was known for his humor, playful spirit, strong work ethic, and his ability to make people feel seen and valued. He had a way of showing up for others that made them feel important. David was simply loved by all.

Most importantly, David was a man of faith. He taught his children the importance of Jesus, family, and going the distance—not quitting when life gets hard but trusting God and pressing forward. His life reflected the scripture:

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7)

David leaves behind a beautiful legacy through those who survive him:

His fiancée, Renee Harris, his son, David Tony III, his daughters Dinah Yamale (Mat Yamale), Dawn Leak (Antonio Leak), Ashley Harris (Darron Black), and Kristen Harris. His beloved grandchildren, Myah, Marissa, Jalen, Ezekiel, Darron, Noah, Lovely, David Tony IV, Megan, Ashton, Aurora, Kai, and Madisyn—along with a host of other family members and dear friends.

While we will miss him deeply, we find comfort in God’s promise that this is not goodbye—it is see you again. David has completed his earthly work, and now he rests in the presence of his Heavenly Father, healed, whole, and at peace.

Let us honor him by living as he taught us—loving our families fiercely, working hard, giving freely, laughing often, and keeping our faith strong.

Well done, good and faithful servant.

We love you, Dad.