COLUMBUS, INDIANA
R. David East, 76, a resident of Columbus, Indiana, passed from this life at 4:26 a.m. Thursday, December 29, 2022, at Our Hospice of South Central Indiana Inpatient Facility.
David was born in Scottsburg, Indiana, January 23, 1946, the son of the late John R. and Dorothy Hitchcox East. On June 19, 1971, David married Penelope “Penny” Branam; she survives.
David began his teaching career as an art teacher at the Southside Junior High School in Columbus. He then taught art at Edinburgh High School and later became the principal at Edinburgh retiring in 2003. As an educator, David was very committed to his students and wanted each one of them to succeed in life. His dedication led to the highest graduation rates Edinburgh High School had ever seen and were among the top in the county. David also served as an adjunct professor of Art History at IUPUC.
David was an accomplished, well-known artist and he owned and operated two art studios in Nashville, Indiana. He was a handyman who remodeled his home and built a studio and frame shop in his own backyard. David had a passion for all animals, even owning a horse at one time. He loved rivers and being on the water. This is one reason he and Penny enjoyed wintering on Lake Seminole in Florida. David will be remembered as being quick witted and always able to put others at ease through humor.
Surviving to cherish his memory are his wife of 51 years, Penelope; a daughter, Erin East of Bloomington; grandson, Rylan Eder of Bloomington; siblings, Mike (Charlotte) East of Seymour, Teresa (Stan) Stradley of Seymour and Pat East of Seymour; and many nieces, nephews and extended family.
David was preceded in death by his parents.
In keeping with David’s wishes, cremation is planned. A gathering of family and friends will be held from 2-4 p.m. Saturday, January 7, 2023, at Barkes, Weaver &Glick Funeral Home on Washington Street. Private inurnment will be at the Garland Brook Mausoleum.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Greater Indiana Chapter, 50 East 91st Street, Suite 100, Indianapolis, Indiana 46140.
Condolences and special memories may be shared with the East family at barkesweaverglick.com.
