John David Dover

A Smile A smile costs nothing, but gives much. It enriches those who receive, without making poorer those who give. It takes but a moment, yet the memory of it may last forever. A smile creates happiness in the home, fosters goodwill in business and is the sign of friendship. It brings rest to the weary, cheer to the discouraged, sunshine to the sad, and is nature’s best antidote to trouble. Yet a smile cannot be bought, begged, borrowed, or stolen; for it is of no value to anyone else Unless it is given away. Anonymous John David Dover, 74, who liberally shared his radiant smile and spirited cackle with friends and strangers alike, died June 24, 2023 at Moffit Cancer Center in Tampa, Florida. John had valiantly battled cancer in recent years, and he ultimately would succumb to an infection complicated by his cancer treatments. Though illness has taken John from us, the memories of the goodwill, cheer, and enthusiasm that he brought to his life and to his work – most often delivered with a smile – will remain with us forever. John Dover’s calling was to develop people, especially young people. John’s smile served as the primary and most evident tool with which he fulfilled this purpose. But behind his smile, John put his other superpowers to work, most notably his elite relational skills, agile mind, and dogged work ethic. John was born on June 15th, 1949 in New York, NY to William and Mary Dover. After earning his bachelors of science degree from Long Island University, John became a teacher and coach. At his alma mater, McBurney School in Manhattan, John launched his career as a biology teacher and basketball coach. His McBurney basketball squads met with consistent success. John’s magnetic energy and personal warmth defined his teaching both in the classroom and on the court. In time, John paired his teaching and coaching with administrative responsibilities. At Kentucky Country Day School (KY), William Penn Charter School (PA), Davidson IB Middle School (NC), and Ravenscroft School (NC), John helped develop programming that fostered the leadership skills and ethical development of students and promoted inclusive communities. In addition to these fine schools, John also served for a time on the staff of Davidson College. Regardless of where he practiced his craft, John endeared himself to the people around him. Simply stated, he exuded and shared a positive energy. John is preceded in death by his loving parents, William and Mary; his brother, William Dover Jr.; and his sister, Jackie Ruffin. John is survived by his beloved wife, Maria A. Dover, to whom he was married in June, 1985, and son, David J. Dover. Maria and David formed the foundation of John’s life. Family and friends will celebrate John’s love, friendship, and impact at an end of life gathering on Friday, June 30th, 2023. A public viewing will begin at 1 pm and be followed at 3 pm by a funeral service. Both events will take place at Porta Coeli funeral home, 2801 E Osceola Pkwy, Kissimmee, FL. The family invites you to join them to share a smile as we remember the legacy of our beloved John.

John David Dover

June 15, 1949 - June 24, 2023