David Paul Whitaker

David Paul Whitaker, affectionately known as D.P., Cowboy, and Mailman, was born on January 11, 1952, in Galveston, Texas to Royal and Maggie Whitaker. He embodied the values of loyalty, service, and kindness.

Since 2013, David fought a courageous battle against cancer, showing strength and resilience until the very end. His life was a testament to perseverance, love, and honor. He was Loved, Respected, and Admired by many - a TRUE soldier, family man, and friend.

David passed on peacefully, with his wife by his side, at 0500 on the 19th of November 2025.

David grew up in La Marque, Texas where he attended La Marque High School (c/o 1971). After graduation, he enlisted into the National Guards, and was able to continue his education at Houston Community College and TSU.

David proudly served in the United States Army (Vietnam War and the Gulf War - Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm) from November 15, 1971 to June 12,1991, dedicating two decades of his life to protecting and serving his country. After returning home, he continued his service to the community through his work with the United States Post Office, where he earned the nickname "Mailman" for his reliability and warm presence.

David was a member of Greater Ebenezer Baptist Church in Houston, Texas under the leadership of Rev. Christopher Mc Daniel. He was a member of the NAACP and served on the La Marque HS, c/o 1971, board as president.

After years of serving, David reunited with his life-long partner, the Love of HIS Life, Diana Woodside (shortly to be known as "WHITAKER"). They were joined as one on June 27, 2011 in St. Thomas, U.S Virgin Islands. The journey through life together included numerous vacations that gave David

David was a devoted father to Shahn "Stay Ready" Whitaker and embraced four bonus children: Pricilla Hart, Jason & Joshua "Lil Boy" Woodside and Jaletha Padgitt "Kibbles" as his own, blessing the world with five grandchildren: Dillon, Carlson, Jaiana, Jason

"Lil Jason", Jazlynne "Jaz".

He loved traveling, especially visits to Louisiana to catch up with cousins who felt more like siblings. He loved taking time for his loved ones; giving laughs and joy to his sisters, brothers, nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Royal and Maggie Whitaker and sisters, Jeanette Sears and Zadie "Joyce" Whitaker.

David leaves to cherish his memories, his wife; Diana Whitaker, sons; Shahn, Jason and Joshua, Daughters; Priscilla and Jaletha, grandchildren; Dillon, Karson, Jaiana, Jason and Jazlynne. Siblings; Roger (Rose), Verna Jean, Lee Carl (Cassandra), Loretta, Glenda, and Curtis (Dreama). And a host of nieces and nephews that are proud to call him Uncle David or Unk.

A visitation will be held on December 6, 2025, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at Great Ebenezer Baptist Church, located at 6600 St Augustine St, Houston, TX 77021, United States.

Following the visitation, a Celebration of Life will take place at the same location from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.