O b i tu a r y

David Michael Booker was born on July 23, 1958, in Cumberland, Virginia, to Alice Janie Booker.

David graduated from Cumberland High School, and at an early age, he joined Zion Baptist Church. He worked a few jobs here and there until he found his joy — and a second family — at Shoosmith, Inc. (now GFL Environmental), where he dedicated forty years of service. He stayed with them until the day he departed.

David enjoyed the simple things in life. Being around family and friends, sharing good food, and filling the room with laughter made him happiest.

On October 14, 2025, he gained his wings. Along with his mother, David was preceded in death by his grandmother, Agnes Beatrice Booker, whom he lovingly called "Mama;" his aunts, Mary Booker and Sarah Catoe; and his uncle, Burley Booker.

David leaves to cherish his memory his daughters, Dana Cain (mother: Florine Cain) and Ebonee Woodford (mother and longtime companion: Debbie Woodford); three grandchildren, Ketara Cain, Kywaun Cain, and Kelise Glover; one great-grandchild, Raelyn McCargo; one aunt, Virginia Bartee; and a host of cousins and friends who loved him dearly.

For Our Papa

(A poem by his grandchildren)

You were our laughter, our stories, our fun,

The sunshine that brightened each day's run.

With gentle hands and a smiling face,

You filled our hearts with love and grace.

You cheered us on in all we'd do,

And taught us kindness, steady and true.

Now heaven holds you, but we still know,

Your love will never let us go.

We'll keep your hugs and every smile,

Your warmth will stay with us a while.

Forever in our hearts you'll be—

Our Papa, our love, our memory.

My Father, My Heart

(A poem by his daughter, Dana)

You were the calm, in every storm, The strength I leaned upon,

A steady hand, a gentle voice, my guide when days felt long.

You never needed fancy words, your love was simply shown—

In laughter shared, in lessons learned, in everything I've known.

You were! the best there ever was, the truest kind of man,

and though my heart will ache for you, I'll do the best I can.

For love like yours will never fade, it lives in all you've done—

In every life your kindness touched, In me—your daughter, your one.

So, rest now, Dad, your work is through, your peace has finally come,

but now; you'll always be with me— My hero, my only one.

This Is Not Goodbye

By Ebonee

This Is Not Goodbye

In the mirror, In my music, In my heart—

In all the qualities of you that live within me—

When I close my eyes to pray,

We'll catch up like it's just another call.

I'll see you later.

Acknowledgments

The family wishes to take this opportunity to thank all our family and friends who extended love and support during our time of bereavement.

May God bless you and his love be yours to share.