Obituary of David "Brother" Deck

David Payne Deck “Brother”   (formerly of Herndon)

David Deck (affectionately known as Brother) passed away on December 18, 2017 in Magnolia, Arkansas from a heart related stroke.  Brother was born on December 9, 1954 in Arlington, VA.  He was the youngest of 13 children born to Bernard and Dorothy Deck of Herndon, Virginia.  Brother attended Herndon schools and graduated from Herndon High School in 1973.  He attended Southern Arkansas University in Magnolia, Arkansas and became a member of Alpha Phi Alpha.  Upon graduation from college in 1979, Brother left for California and secured a job with the California Dept. of Corrections and Rehab.  He spent the majority of his life living and working in California, Virginia, and Arkansas.  His final destination was Magnolia, Arkansas where he opened a small business in the college town, naming it - “Walk-N-Peace” 

Brother was a true ambassador of peace.  Several years ago he re-connected with his fraternity brothers from Alpha Phi Alpha.  When back in Arkansas he became a mentor to many of the younger members of the fraternity; some looked up to him as a father figure.  He considered his affiliation with Alpha Phi Alpha as one of the most significant highlights of his life.   He was true to his friends and family always showing respect while encouraging them to follow the path of life centered on a positive attitude.  His life’s motto became “walknpeace”   His calm demeanor remained with him to the end.
 
He is survived by eight sisters, Mary Coleman, Dottie Anderson, Janet Owens, Helen Seale, Jean Pomeroy, Jane Kennedy, Sue Groff and Carolyn Deck and one brother, Bill.   He was predeceased by his parents, Bernie and Dorothy Deck and three brothers, Gibson, Bernie and Julian Deck.
 

Memorial contributions are directed to a favorite charity or The House That Jack Built, 7 Colonial Drive, Texarkana, AR 71854.