David Viera Gracia

David Viera Gracia, 58, departed this world and entered heaven early morning, Monday, June 2, 2014 at Good Shepherd Hospice in Auburndale, Florida. A Florida native, David was born in Jacksonville on May 9, 1956 to Edwin and Virginia Gracia. He graduated from Terry Parker High School and attended Jacksonville University on full scholarship, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree with honors. He also earned a master's degree in education from the University of Florida in Gainesville. David was a beloved educator, working as both an instructor and head master at a private school in Palatka, Florida, and, most recently, as a very successful upper-level science teacher in several Jacksonville area high schools, where he also served as sponsor of numerous student clubs and organizations. He earned many honors as a teacher, including grants and opportunities to be involved in research in science education. He was an active member of First Baptist Church, Jacksonville and of the Jacksonville University alumni, being named Alumnus of the Decade. David moved to Winter Haven in 2010 to live with his father Edwin. David enjoyed a close relationship with both his mother Virginia and maternal grandmother Brannon Tison and joins them in heaven. He is survived by father Edwin Gracia of Winter Haven, brother Charles (spouse Karen) of Lakeland, sister Rebecca Commer (spouse J.C.) and niece Hilary Commer and nephew Morgan Commer of San Antonio, Texas. He also is survived by aunts, uncles, cousins and second cousins. David's uncle Richard Tison of Winter Haven will officiate at a graveside service Monday, June 9, 2014 at 10:00am at Rolling Hills Cemetery in Winter Haven.