David E. Becker's Obituary
David Edward Becker passed away at his home in Belleair, Florida, on June 3rd, 2026.
David was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, on July 9, 1937, and was raised in Fort Thomas, Kentucky, a suburb of Cincinnati. He was educated in the Fort Thomas school system, where he distinguished himself early on as an outstanding athlete. During high school, David excelled in football, basketball, baseball, and track. He was elected captain of the football team in 1954 and was voted the team’s Outstanding Running Back his senior year. He graduated from Highlands High School in 1955 and went on to attend the University of Kentucky.
While at the University of Kentucky, David demonstrated both leadership and academic excellence. He was elected to the Student Council, served as Chairman of the University’s Judiciary Council, and was inducted into several honor societies. He was also an active member of the Delta Tau Delta fraternity, serving as Vice President of his chapter during his senior year. In 1959, David graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration. He then completed the University of Michigan’s Graduate School of Business Administration MBA program in just 12 months.
David began his professional career with Smith Barney & Company in New York City, where he joined the firm’s highly regarded investment research department. Within three years, he was named a senior analyst—the youngest person to achieve that distinction at the time. In 1965, he was asked to help establish the firm’s first Florida office in Tampa. He accepted and moved with his family, and within two years, he was named manager of the office, beginning a distinguished career in public finance.
During his tenure, David played a key role in numerous transformative projects throughout Florida. He was directly responsible for Smith Barney’s success in financing the initial bond issue that led to the creation of Tampa Stadium. He later led the firm’s efforts in financing the stadium’s expansion, contributing to its iconic nickname, “The Great Sombrero.” His work also included financing projects such as Tampa International Airport and many other significant public developments.
In 1976, David was asked to relocate to Dallas, Texas, to manage the firm’s Southwest Regional Office. Although successful in that role, he longed to return to Florida. In 1977, he did just that, opening a Florida office for Kidder, Peabody & Company. There, he expanded the firm’s presence across the state, leading financings for the West Coast Regional Water Supply Authority (now Tampa Water Company), as well as major projects for Pinellas County, Hillsborough County, and the City of Tampa. His efforts helped bring about solid waste-to-energy facilities and contributed to the development of key cultural and civic landmarks, including the Tampa Performing Arts Center (now the Straz Center) and the Florida Aquarium—an instrumental catalyst in the revitalization of downtown Tampa.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, David was deeply committed to civic and charitable service. He took great pride in his community of Belleair, where he served as Chairman of the Planning and Zoning Committee and later as a member of the Town Council. He revitalized the town’s Little League program and dedicated countless hours to its success.
David was a devoted member of the Episcopal Church of the Ascension, where he served on the vestry. He also gave many years of service to Morton Plant Hospital, including a decade on its Board of Trustees and two years as Chairman. Following his tenure, he continued to serve as Chairman of the hospital’s investment committee.
One of David’s proudest achievements was his role in founding St. Paul’s School alongside a group of dedicated citizens. His leadership and commitment helped establish a school that has thrived for more than 55 years. He served as Treasurer and later as Chairman of the Board.
David was an active member of numerous social and civic organizations, including nearly 50 years with the Carlouel Yacht Club, where he served as Commodore. He was also a longtime member of the University Club of Tampa, the Belleair Country Club, and the Privateers of Clearwater.
Despite his many accomplishments, David’s greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Pamela, whom he cherished as the love of his life. He is also survived by his children: daughter Stephanie and her children, Anton and Lily; daughter Amy Adair, her husband John, and their daughter Baylee; son Kevin and his wife Nui; and son Geoffrey, his fiancé Leslie and children Mason and Anna Katherine. He is also survived by his stepdaughter Christy Williams and her children Kyle, Kara, and Bradley.
David often said that of all the people he knew and all the experiences he had, his 33 years with Pamela were the most wonderful of his life. He left her with these words: “When the angels ask me to recall the thrill of it all, I shall tell them I remember you.”
He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Episcopal Church of the Ascension or St. Paul’s School Clearwater.
Visitation will be Thursday, June 18th 5:00PM-7:00PM at the funeral home, 693 S. Belcher Rd, Clearwater, FL 33764 and the service will be Friday, June 19th 11:00AM at the Episcopal Church of the Ascension, 701 Orange Ave, Clearwater, FL 33756.
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