Jonathan David Young Jr. passed away on January 5, 2024. Born on August 5, 1939, in Muncie, IN, to Mary M. (Welch) and Jonathan Young, David's life was one marked by kindness, a gentle nature, and a commitment to others.

David was born in Muncie, and lived 2 years in Panama before returning to Muncie where he graduated in 1957 from Muncie Central High School. David pursued higher education at Ball State University, earning a bachelors and master's degree before returning to obtain his doctoral degree at age 74.

David's journey as an educator began at Winchester Elementary School, followed by two years at River Forest in Lake County, and a remarkable 30-year tenure at Highland High School. In 1973, he played a pivotal role in one of the first teacher strikes in the state, standing up for the rights of educators and paving the way for positive change.

Throughout his illustrious career, David earned accolades such as the ISTA Pace Setter Award, the Phillip Carey Award for Human Relations, appointed to the Professional Standards Board by Governor Bayh, and was named Sagamore of the Wabash by Indiana Governor Frank O'Bannon. His dedication to education extended beyond the classroom, leading him to serve on the NEA Board of Directors, Indiana State Teachers Association (ISTA) State Vice President, and ISTA President from 1995 to 2001.

David is predeceased by his parents and a half-brother, Jonathan W. Young, and sister, Carolyn (Young) Smith.

He is survived by his wife Patricia Ervin, a half-sister Nancy, and step-sister Prudence. David is also survived by daughter, Roslind Young from Redwood City, CA, and son, Jonathan D. Young III from Valparaiso, IN. He leaves behind a step-son, Zachary Ervin, of Indianapolis, IN, and bonus daughter Stephanie Daugherty (Adrian Dance) from Ft. Wayne, IN, along with three cherished bonus grandchildren, Adria, Ariah, and AD Dance; nieces, Laura and Sharon Smith; and three sisters-in-law, Jacqueline Irwin, Teresa Keller, and Jeanne Blain.

A celebration of David's life will be held at Fair Haven Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 6557 N Clinton Street, Ft Wayne, IN on Saturday, January 13, 2024, with calling hours from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm, followed by a brief service. Internment will occur at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in David's memory to the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. David's legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the minds he molded, and the indelible mark he left on the field of education.