Obituary of David N Fernandez

David Norman Fernandes was born in Boston, MA to Francesca (Frances) Fernandes Horton on April 27, 1943. He attended Boston Public Schools and served in the United States Marine Corp in Vietnam. When he returned home, he started working in transportation until he perfected his craft as masonry contractor. He was eager to share his knowledge with anyone who was willing to learn and to work hard. Many family members and youth in the community were employed by David.

He was generous with his time, his money and his wisdom. Often, he would buy extra groceries from Haymarket square and share them with family and neighbors. Because he appreciated his blessings, he didn’t want anyone to be hungry, homeless or financially challenged.

David joined the Masonic Temple where he and his brothers were involved in the community. He has earned the distinction of Past Master during his life-long membership. In 2008 David had an accident that broke his neck. In spite of the doctor’s dire predictions that he would never walk, breath or eat on his own; he defied the odds and not only walked but ate everything he wanted!

In the winter of 2016 David was diagnosed with cancer. With his family by his side, he went home to be with the Lord on June 24, 2017 at 5:00 am. David looked at life like it always had something to give and he lived it to the fullest, often travelling the globe with his loving companion Sheila Downs.

His memory will be cherished by the love of his life, Sheila Downs and his children David Jr, Derrick, Denine, Eric and Andrea Burton, and Shautay King. He will be missed by his grandchildren David III, Chandan, Nefertiti, Shana, and Emile Menard, Brittany, Kamylla, Chaunessy, John Erica, Evan, Brian, Brianna, and Malik. He is dearly loved by his siblings Emmanuel Fernandes, Annette Dixon, Blanche Brookins, Louise Horton, and Eroy Horton.

A host of family and friends including godson Randy Horton and goddaughter Vanessa Fernandes will speak his name with fondness. If you are reading this program, you know that David loved you too!