David Simmons Young

David Simmons Young , 68, passed away Friday, February 21, 2020, after bravely battling several lengthy illnesses.

He leaves behind his wife of 34 years Joellyn (Cox) Young; sons Daniel Young and Jonathan Young, two brothers William Young and wife Judy, Morey Young and wife Cathy, sister Sally (Young) D’Antonio, nephews William Young, Steven Young, Shannon Young and Jeremy Young and niece Lori Young and many great-nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents Morey Young, Helen (Lilly) Young and brother-in-law Richie D’Antonio.

Born and raised in Parksburg, Pennsylvania, David graduated from Octorara High School, received his Bachelor of Music degree from Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and a Master’s Degree in Sacred Choral Music from Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis, Indiana.

After graduating from Temple, David lived in New York City and spent many years on the road playing piano with various traveling Broadway shows, and as music director for regional theatres up and down the east coast.

David had a deep faith and wherever he was in the country, he found a church home. He served as Choral and Music director for churches in Pennsylvania, New York, Florida, Michigan and most recently, in Indiana at Christ the Savior Lutheran Church, New Hope Presbyterian Church, and St Louis de Montfort Catholic Church in Fishers. It was during his time in Fishers that he created and directed the Hamilton County Choral Society and worked in conjunction with local musicians and orchestral organizations to create beautiful community concerts for the people of Hamilton County and surrounding areas.

Perhaps his proudest accomplishment was the opening of The Artists’ Studio, a training facility for young artists as well as a place for youth and adult performers to share their gifts with the community. He greatly valued working with all the artists, young and old and avidly followed their careers even after the studio closed. David was an outstanding musical director and pianist and a patient, supportive, encouraging teacher to both his voice and piano students. With a quick wit, infectious laugh, occasional bawdy comment and a Coke always in the pit, he gathered some of the areas’ finest musicians to play along with him for over 500 performances in that space alone.

Lastly, David was a humble and grateful friend of Bill W’s for 26 years.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, March 6, 2020 with visitation from 11:00 – 12:30 and a memorial service from 12:30 – 1:00 at Indiana Funeral Care, 8151 Allisonville Road, Indianapolis, Indiana 46250.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the charity of your choice in his name.