David Michael "Dave" Felix
David Michael "Dave" Felix
Obituary
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David Felix Obituary
A native of Brooklyn, NY, Dave (as he was affectionately known) was born Dec. 8, 1956, to the late David Felix and Esther Felix (nee Fontanez). He was educated in the NYC public school system, graduating from John Jay HS. He attended John Jay College of Criminal Justice of the City University of NY.
Dave was an all-around good guy with a smile that would light up a room. With his trademark full mustache (only Tom Selleck's could compete) and dry sense of humor, he was great at making people laugh. In a word, he was dedicated - a cop's cop and a fine, faith-filled father, as well as a mentor to his nieces, nephews and their children. You could count on his always "having your six".
Dave's commitment to law enforcement began when he entered the NYPD academy in 1981 and soon rose through the ranks, working undercover as part of Brooklyn South Narcotics, the 71st precinct, the 72nd precinct, becoming a homicide detective in Manhattan South and then a vice squad detective in Brooklyn South/Staten Island. He retired as a sergeant in early 2001. After the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center, he returned to serve at Ground Zero on "the pile".
Dave met his wife Sara, at the Methodist Hospital in Brooklyn, where they both worked and were connected by family and friends who also worked there. They dated, fell in love, and the rest is history.
Dave fully embodied the role of elder, in that he had shepherded, led, and mentored as he lived and shared his faith. As Elder David of SonRise Faith Church of Staten Island, NY for many years, Dave touched the lives of all who crossed his path. He continued that ministry at Grandview church in Dunnellon, FL, where he relocated about 15 years ago. Dave had a great impact on many people, imparting his faith and continuing to serve the Lord.
In his spare time, Dave collected historic newspapers, enjoyed going to estate sales and antiquing, and was a diehard NY Yankees fan. He had a love for the written word from the time he was a child and enjoyed writing essays and journaling.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 46 years, Sara (nee Nunez); his daughter, Eraina Felix; and son, David Matthew Felix; his sisters Laura J. Felix of Binghamton, NY; and Rebecca A. Felix of Keyport, NJ; as well as his nieces and nephews: Alexander Castellanos (Spain), Melissa Johnson (NJ), Luke Castellanos (OH), Laura McGregor (nee Castellanos) (OH), Rosalind Johnson (NJ); and 15 great-nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents, David Felix and Esther Felix (nee Fontanez) of Scranton, PA.
Family and friends may visit at Hiers-Baxley Funeral Services in Ocala, FL
Friday, 8/9/2024 at 12 Noon - 3 PM and at 5 PM - 8 PM.
There will be a service at 7 PM on Friday.
Saturday visitation from 8 AM - 10:30 AM
Interment at 12 Noon in Highland Memorial Park in Ocala, FL
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Grandview Church, Dunnellon, FL or Tunnel to Towers Foundation.
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Miriam Torres
July 18, 2025
A gentleman and a scholar!!
Great Boss......rest easy
Eric Court
July 17, 2025
My heart is broken! Dave and I started and worked several assignments together. He was more than a friend, he was my brother! So many memories and what comes to mind foremost is his heart! God bless you my brother! God bless your family!!
Kevin Mannion
September 2, 2024
Dave was a good man, a great leader and a true cop's cop. He was one of the best Sgts to ever work in the Vice Division. May he rest in eternal peace knowing he had an impact on the world!
Laurie McGregor
August 12, 2024
My Uncle David had a heart for Jesus and it showed. He was a man who stood in the gap. In other words, he had a deep commitment to the well-being of others, and naturally took on the responsibility of helping those around him through prayer and action. His home was a refuge for anyone in need of shelter and comfort, reflecting his unwavering dedication to others.
Through my little girl eyes, he was a handsome gentle giant, the epitome of strength and invincibility. He sported a signature eighties cop mustache and always greeted his nieces with a cheerful "hi mama" or "hi little mama." He inherited a beautiful combination of his parent´s best qualities: the loving kindness and steadfast faith of his mother and the generosity and loyal dependability of his father. After my grandmother's passing, he became the glue that held our family together. His home became the central gathering place for all family events.
Whether things went wrong or right, Uncle David was always there. He was known for his relentless determination, often driving through treacherous weather armed with only coffee, prayers, and an unwavering will to reach his destination. Each of his nieces and nephews has a story about a wild road trip with him, where against all odds they somehow survived to tell the tale.
Uncle David was there for me in all the important moments. He attended my school play, my high school graduation, and he helped me move into my first apartment. He prayed with me and my future husband in our first apartment together. He sat at my table on my wedding day. He prayed over the lives of my children. He never failed to offer wise counsel and mentor me in my faith journey. So empathetic was his nature, he could read what was troubling you as if it were written on your face.
What´s most profound in reflecting upon his influence over my life is knowing that even though each word and gesture was tailored for me, my experience with him was not unique. He stood in the gap for so many, both known and unknown. His presence helped raise me and I will forever be grateful for the blessing of having him in my life.
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Laurie McGregor
August 11, 2024
My Uncle David had a heart for Jesus and it showed. He was a man who stood in the gap. In other words, he had a deep commitment to the well-being of others, and naturally took on the responsibility of helping those around him through prayer and action. His home was a refuge for anyone in need of shelter and comfort, reflecting his unwavering dedication to others.
Through my little girl eyes, he was a handsome gentle giant, the epitome of strength and invincibility. He sported a signature eighties cop mustache and always greeted his nieces with a cheerful "hi mama" or "hi little mama." He inherited a beautiful combination of his parent´s best qualities: the loving kindness and steadfast faith of his mother and the generosity and loyal dependability of his father. After my grandmother's passing, he became the glue that held our family together. His home became the central gathering place for all family events.
Whether things went wrong or right, Uncle David was always there. He was known for his relentless determination, often driving through treacherous weather armed with only coffee, prayers, and an unwavering will to reach his destination. Each of his nieces and nephews has a story about a wild road trip with him, where against all odds they somehow survived to tell the tale.
Uncle David was there for me in all the important moments. He attended my school play, my high school graduation, and he helped me move into my first apartment. He prayed with me and my future husband in our first apartment together. He sat at my table on my wedding day. He prayed over the lives of my children. He never failed to offer wise counsel and mentor me in my faith journey. So empathetic was his nature, he could read what was troubling you as if it were written on your face.
What´s most profound in reflecting upon his influence over my life is knowing that even though each word and gesture was tailored for me, my experience with him was not unique. He stood in the gap for so many, both known and unknown. His presence helped raise me and I will forever be grateful for the blessing of having him in my life.
Kelly Caldwell
August 10, 2024
I remember when I first met David at Randy's mom's wedding in Florida, he was so friendly and talkative. He made me laugh so many time as he was a very funny guy. I wish I got to know him a little bit better. But I was happy I at least got to meet him once. When I found out that he was in NY and he had all these newspaper clippings from when he was law enforcement, it was a really interesting way to see how he was and what he did while in NY. From me and my family we all send our deepest condolences and sorry for your loss
Randy Caldwell
August 10, 2024
My first Memory of my Uncle David was going on Vacation, he was hold me on his shoulders at the water park, and we were taking pictures. We had so much fun as kids with him. David always tried to make us laugh. His goal in life was to make the world a Brighter place, and never let the darkness win. He was a wonderful father to his kids. He raised them to believe in them self's, and also stand up to the bully's. Even if you are out numbered believing in you're self is all you need. Nothing can stop you. His kids have done a wonderful job holding on to those teachings. David loved history too. David would take pictures of so many old news paper clipping's, and old items from the past. I loved that about him. He would remember the past so we don't repeat the same mistakes for the future. I plan to carry those teachings, and pass them to my son. I has only been a few days, and I miss him. I miss his smile. I miss seeing him hug his wife, and kids. I miss his words or wisdom, but I know he would tell me not to be sad. Be happy, and enjoy you're life. Enjoy the gift you have. I am happy where I am. I love you David, Sara, and everyone else. I am so sorry for you're loss. He will never be forgotten in this family. God bless you all.
Michelle
August 10, 2024
I worked with Dave Felix affectionately known as Sgt. at the time. He was like a big brother figure. A kind God Fearing Family Man. May he rest in eternal peace.
Melody Buccafusco
August 8, 2024
David was my prayer partner..when either one of us was going through a storm..we would embark on a journey of prayer..His love..obedience..and strong faith gave him an encounter with the Lord, that is only imparted to some..and one of those encounters saved my life..I was feeling fine and David told me he had to pray and fast for me the whole week..I thought he lost it..but I told him ok..one week to the day..I had a major stroke in my sleep..I went in hospital and was out three days later because he had me prayed up already for a week..when he went in hospital, he called me to tell me to prepare for a royal battle and we prayed everyday..I will miss David but know we will all be united..Sarah, Eraina and David Jr..a family of God..your husband and father will be in your heart until you see him again in the Kingdom..WE CRY WHEN WE ARE BORN...AND THE WORLD REJOICES..WHEN WE GO HOME..THE WORLD CRIES AND WE REJOICE
Eddie Carroll
August 7, 2024
A great guy and great cop. Worked with him in the 71 pct never a bad word about anybody always looking to help. RIP my friend.
Mike paul
August 7, 2024
Worked with Dave in the 71st precinct that man never had a discouraging word and he was one good street cop and a smile and a unique laugh that no one who knew him could forget. all careers went in different directions, but we occasionally seen each other and it wasn´t till last year when a good friend of ours retired that we met each other again exchange numbers and stayed in touch. He is true inspiration
Danae hughes
August 7, 2024
I'll always remember my uncle by the scent of coffee.
Danae Hughes
August 7, 2024
One of my favorite memories of my uncle is from when I was seven, sitting on the couch in the living room. We were watching a movie together and eating cherries. I remember being amazed when I saw him eat a cherry with the stem still on. I said, "Uncle, you can't eat that!" He then took the stem out of his mouth and showed me how he had tied it into a knot. After that, he began to teach me how to do it myself. i´ll never forget that moment. i love you too
Laura Jennifer Felix
August 7, 2024
I´m his Big Sister Laura My First Memory of David was the Sun coming through the Kitchen Window dappling through Clean Kitchen Curtains and Our Beloved Mother Mrs. Esther Felix Bathing David in a Bathinette at the kitchen table and She was Smiling and Holding him up
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