In Memoriam: Dr. Joel David

Posted on August 9, 2023 By Editor In Memoriam

OCTOBER 9, 1953 – JUNE 24, 2023

Throughout his life, Dr. Joel David was a purveyor of kindness, compassion and love. He was a dedicated friend, doting husband, and he showed unwavering support for those in his community. He was surrounded by his loving family when he passed on June 24, 2023, at the age of 69.

Joel began his professional journey at The University of Florida. After graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry, he subsequently obtained his Doctor of Medical Dentistry from University of Florida in 1979. From that moment, Joel began to revolutionize the practice of dentistry and the lives of those around him.

Joel first opened The Dentist Place in Mandarin, before establishing the nationally renowned David and Associates Center for Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry in 1988. David and Associates was the first multi-specialty dental practice to give patients access to all sub-specialties of dentistry under one roof. An entrepreneur and innovator, Joel invented the acclaimed D5 Teeth in 2016, which now has businesses in six states. He developed his own integrated software and 3-D printing into the design and construction of Zirconia bridges to give patients complete sets of teeth in just two days. Even his business advertising efforts were notable, being the first dentist to advertise on television and winning a Tally Award and a Clio Award for his ingenuity.

Not one to simply change people’s lives professionally, Joel was equally compassionate in his personal life. He leaves behind his best friend, loving partner and husband of 34 years, Brian Ware. When not busy with his growing practice, Joel could be found out on the golf course, a passion at which he excelled. He loved sports and fast cars, and enjoyed sharing his affection for food, laughter and good times with those around him.

Joel dedicated a large part of his life to caring for those in the community. He was one of the very first dentist to care for patients with HIV, and countless people benefited from his pro-bono dental work in Jacksonville, Atlanta and Chicago. Always generous, he gave anonymously to countless charitable organizations.

Joel was an active supporter, donor and volunteer for JASMYN, an organization that supports and empowers LGBTQIA+ teens and young adults through leadership, advocacy, resources, and a safe and affirming community. He and his husband, Brian, were also champions for Equality of Florida and Strides for Pride, organizations that work tirelessly to promote equality and create a more inclusive society for all individuals.

Joel’s kind heart made an impact in the local dental community as well. He was a patron of Give Kids A Smile and provided donations and dental supplies to help other nonprofit dental clinics. He performed numerous, full-makeover smile donations in our community. Joel was also a big financial supporter of the Jacksonville Humane Society.

Furthermore, Joel and Brian were generous donors to the Renand Foundation group in Haiti. Their contributions played a significant role in helping the foundation build a school, ultimately changing the future for countless children in Haiti. Without this support, many of these children would have been vulnerable to the horrors of slavery and sex trafficking.

Dr. Joel David’s passing leaves a void in our community, but his legacy of giving and making a difference will continue to inspire us all. While he will be missed by all his friends, colleagues and patients, those that knew him will have an everlasting memory of the beauty he left behind. The world is better for having known his selflessness and unwavering dedication to improving the lives of others.