David J Young

David Jay Arthur Young, a devoted father, joyful spirit, and lifelong champion of children’s education and the outdoors, passed away on July 17, 2025, at the age of 65. His kind heart, sense of humor, and love for life touched everyone who had the joy of knowing him.

A memorial mass will be held on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at 11:00 am at St. James Catholic Church, located at 327 West St, Carthage, NY 13619.

He spent his career doing what he loved most: helping kids. As a school counselor in the Indian River Central School District, he worked at Theresa, Philadelphia, Evans Mills, and Antwerp Primary Schools. He had a gift for making children feel seen, heard, and valued. Whether offering quiet support or making them laugh with his goofy charm, he left a lasting mark on generations of young people.

Outside of school, he lived for the outdoors. He was an avid mountain biker, runner, camper, and cross-country skier. Nature was his happy place, and he found peace on empty trails, joy in fresh snow, and freedom in motion. He passed that love on to his children, whom he coached through years of Little League, soccer, and lacrosse with enthusiasm!

He is survived by his three children, who were the light of his life: Andre Young of St. Petersburg, FL; Maria Young of Syracuse, NY; and Ryan Young of Lowville, NY. He is also survived by his loving siblings: Catherine Young of Shelburne, VT; Andrew Young of Starksboro, VT; Robert Young of Niskayuna, NY; and John Young of Baton Rouge, LA. He was predeceased by his brother, William Young; and parents, Robert and Ellen Young.

To know him was to smile. He had a goofy sense of humor, a deep love for books and documentaries, and a remarkable ability to connect with people. Whether he was coaching a game, sharing a trail, or telling a joke that made you roll your eyes and laugh anyway, he made people feel loved, welcome, and at ease.

In honor of his love for the outdoors, donations can be made to the Barkeater Trails Alliance (BETA), an organization that reflects his adventurous spirit and his belief in the healing power of nature.

He leaves behind a world that’s brighter, kinder, and more fun because he was in it. His children, both in school and at home, will miss him so much.

The arrangements are with the Lundy Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Inc., located at 500 State Street in Carthage, NY 13619. Online condolences in his memory can be made to www.lundyfuneralhome.com