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Davis Prowitt Obituary
PROWITT DAVIS SHERBURNE PROWITT (Age 73) On Saturday, April 12, 2008, Davis S. Prowitt of Falls Church, Virginia, passed away at the Cherrydale Health and Rehabilitation Center in Arlington, VA, following a battle with respiratory disease. Davis touched many lives through his extraordinary career in broadcasting. It is not too much to say that he helped invent science broadcasting at PBS. He also produced a number of cultural programs during his career between the 1960's and the 1980's, and was recognized as one of the truly skilled writers and producers in television. He received many awards for his work, and served on a number of science and health-related boards where he contributed his skills as a communicator and educator. His wife Margaret predeceased Davis in 2002. He is survived by his brother Michael Prowitt; his children Peter, Dave and Lynn; Margaret's children Katie and Richard; two daughters-in-law and eight grandchildren. All of these family members played key roles in helping Davis through his final years, along with other relatives and many friends. A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, May 2 at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, 4801 Ravensworth Road, Annandale, VA, 22003. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Barnabas Episcopal Church at the above address, or to WETA-Public Broadcasting, 2775 South Quincy Street, Arlington, VA. 22206.
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Memories and Condolences
for Davis Prowitt
5 Entries
Steve Gilford
May 30, 2008
I shall always be grateful to David for giving me life-changing opportunities and making possible one of the most challenging and satisfying periods of my professional life. Because he drew outstanding people to him, he was an excellent Executive Producer and he was also an outstanding host of some of Public Broadcasting's most outstanding programming. He did more than produce quality television, he helped to shape public broadcasting.
Bliss Bruen
May 30, 2008
David was one of the most inspiring and delightful individuals one could come across - but only if one was very lucky. So sad not to have spent time together after our paths and geography distanced us, our memories of him will always be a rich source of energy for us to keep doing those things he would have enjoyed and approved of. And the scotch and milk we'll drink again to him, as our good friend Judy recalled. Memories of him in many cities, his bright wit and charm and intellect - but especially in Washington in the late 1970's. I remember his son Peter and hope we can meet again - lots of photos of this very dear man still carrying them around!
Judy Miglino
April 30, 2008
David ... you will always remain a special person in my life ... but as always, you are going to forge the path for the rest of us ... have a scotch and MILK for me... see ya soon and luvya always
Marian Houk
April 30, 2008
I remember Davis fondly as a charming, engaging conversationalist and a generous host. Our family enjoyed a very special Thanksgiving feast at the home of Margaret and Davis some years ago. The living room was set up so that all of the many guests could sit around one big table to share the occasion and the delicous food.
Our family is ever grateful for the loving care provided by Margaret and Davis as well to the children of Julie and Tick Houk. The families became close, dear friends.
All of the Houks continue to enjoy and appreciate our relationships with Katie Mandes and her son and daughter.
Julie Houk
April 30, 2008
My children, husband, and I will all greatly miss Davis! He was an eloquent writer, endearing friend, and fabulous cook. We will truly miss his backyard barbecues, and his world-famous "Poppa's Spaghetti Sauce." My deepest sympathies to his family.
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