David Waters, Jr.

Obituary For David Waters, Jr.

David Waters Jr., devoted husband, father, grandfather, veteran, and community leader, passes away….

David Joseph Waters, Jr. (Bunny), of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of service, leadership, and dedication to his family and community. Born and raised in Harrisburg, he was the beloved son of the late David, Sr. and Mary Waters.

A proud graduate of John Harris High School, David excelled in athletics, earning varsity letters in football, basketball, and baseball. His outstanding performance led to his induction into the school’s Hall of Fame and recognition with the prestigious Bob Davies Award. He continued his academic and athletic pursuits at The Lincoln University of Pennsylvania, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts and was a four-year letterman in basketball and baseball. His achievements were further honored with the Frazier S. Taylor Memorial Prize. While at Lincoln, he also became a lifelong member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.

David later earned a Master of Business Administration from the University of Pittsburgh’s Joseph M. Katz Graduate School of Business. His dedication to service extended to the U.S. Navy, where he served as a Supply Corps Officer during the Vietnam Era, rising to the rank of Lieutenant.

With over four decades of experience in private industry, state government, and nonprofit organizations, David retired as the Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Minority Business Development Authority within the Department of Community & Economic Development. He was deeply passionate about microenterprise and youth entrepreneurship, securing grants and directing programs for Philadelphia and Harrisburg public housing, Girls, Inc., Rejoice!, Inc., YWCA, and the Kutztown University Small Business Development Center. His dedication earned him the Eastern Pennsylvania Minority Small Business Advocate of the Year Award from the Small Business Administration and the James Hyson Advocate Award from the Community First Fund.

Beyond his professional work, David was an active member of his community. He coached youth soccer, football, basketball, and girls’ softball, inspiring young athletes with his guidance and encouragement. A dedicated member of Baptist Fellowship Church, he served faithfully as General Treasurer. He was also a board member of The Fair Housing Council of the Capital Region and the L.O.R.D. Community Development Organization, Inc.

David shared 58 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Joyce Richards Waters. Together, they raised three children: the late Tracey, Travis (Stacey), and Kevin. He was a cherished grandfather to Maya Green (Shaquail) and a loving great-grandfather to Nova and Nasir Green. He is also survived by his mother, Mary Waters; his siblings, Carol Waters Jones, Melvin (Karen), Sharon, Debbie, and Yolanda, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

David’s legacy of service, leadership, and love will continue to inspire all who knew him. His impact on his family, friends, and community will never be forgotten.

His life will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 8, 2025 at Baptist Fellowship Church, 3985 N. 2nd Street, Harrisburg with viewing and visitation from 9:30 a.m. until 10:45 a.m., Omega Service at 10:50 a.m. and burial in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery on Wednesday, April 9, 2025 at 10:00 a.m.

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