David Nelson Boyd

85, died peacefully at home, Nov 21, 2015. He is survived by his wife and dedicated caretaker of 55 yrs, Cynthia Hollister; his children, David and spouse Rhonnie; Nelson and spouse Sara; Betsy and spouse John; eight grandchildren, J.R., Matthew, Spencer, Laura, Leah, Abigail, Laina Jane, and Oliviya. David was born at Tampa General, graduated from Plant High (Chairman Reunion Committee) and Univ of Tampa. He was interested in all things mechanical, beginning with erector sets, evolving into cars and clocks. He built “David N. Boyd Clocks,” where he restored and sold clocks for 70 yrs. Certified by the Florida State Watchmaker’s Association, an “Oldtimer” in National Assoc of Watch and Clock Collectors; a master of his trade. A founding member and first president of the FL Region Model A Restorers’ Club. He worked at the US Geological Survey for 10 yrs, providing local watershed histories and employing his interests for geography and cartography. He took Dale Carnegie Courses, which he claimed improved sales and character, a Mensa member, and was involved in his children and grandchildren’s activities. He was a Troop 4 Boy Scout, where his son and grandsons are active today. He enjoyed people of all walks of life and liked introducing people of similar interests to one another. He was famous for asking,” Where are you from originally?” David led Wed night services at First Christian Church, until becoming a member of DICC (now South Tampa Fellowship Church) where he has loved and been loved for 40 years. David was a survivor of polio, which he contracted at 19, 2 bouts of cancer, diabetes, and depression, which he claimed was his greatest handicap. David inspired others with his can-do spirit by leading life from a wheelchair. As a boy, David trusted Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Savior when an evangelist shared that Jesus died on the cross for his sins. He recognized that he was a sinner separated from God in need of a savior. He accepted the gift of eternal life through Jesus’ sacrifice by believing/trusting. His family looks forward to seeing him again in glory with his new body. Viewing: Sun, Nov 29, 6-8pm, Blount & Curry, 605 S MacDill. Mem Serv: Mon, Nov 30, 11am, South Tampa Fellowship, Davis Island. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Jeff & April Sukup (Botswana missions) payable to STF (813-251-1515).