David Suggs

In Loving Memory of David Suggs
May 5, 1959 – August 16, 2016
"He Loved the Lord"

Tuesday, August 16, 2016, David Suggs fell asleep in Christ. David persevered with Multiple Sclerosis for over 25 years. Amid unending love and support from his wife, Elder John Windley (faithful prayer partner), church family and immediate family, David was called to peacefully enter into his home - eternal in heaven. He embraced this scripture with unwavering faith:

II Corinthians 4:16 For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the in-ward man is renewed day by day. 17 "For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; 18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen, for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.

David was born May 5, 1959 in Newark, N.J. to the late James E. Suggs and Sally O'Neal- Suggs. In addition to his parents, David was predeceased by his brother, James E. Suggs, Jr. and sister Ruth Suggs-Gaines. David is survived by his wife, Fran Suggs and their children: Shakesha Hilts, Robert Chapman, David S. Suggs and Devan Q. Suggs; his sister, Barbara O'Neal; his father and mother in-law Frank S. Hilts and James and Ruby Carraway; bothers and sisters-in-law Sally Henderson (Eugene), Ruby Marks-Hilts (Milton-predeceased), Frank Hilts, Jr., Christopher Hilts, Janet Hilts and 6 grandchildren and a host of relatives and friends.

In 1975, David graduated from Westside High School and accepted an academic scholarship to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, N.Y. In 1976, David visited Redemption Church of Christ in Troy. On December 11, 1976, he was baptized in the Name of Jesus and filled with the Holy Ghost. He was a dedicated bible student who "loved the Lord." David and Fran met at church and realized that their compatible love for the Lord and the word of God lit a light in their hearts for each other. They were joined in Holy Matrimony on June 14, 1981. Both continued their lives together in Christ until he was called to his heavenly home. While working at General Electric in Waterford, David answered the call to work full-time in the ministry. His service to the church took shape in various capacities including: Sunday school Teacher and Bible Study Leader. After holding a teaching position at Redemption Christian Academy, David developed an extensive distribution route with Goodway Bakery, operated by Redemption Church Ministries. As David's MS progressed, he was determined to stay relevant by making a contribution to affect the lives of others. As a result, he became a committed volunteer at Redemption Christian Academy. David was also known for his compassion and sense of humor. His little students would hop on his wheelchair for a ride along their way or communicate with him through their "special language."

David's life has left a spiritual imprint on the lives of many. Although we are experiencing loss, we are also embracing gratitude because another soul has made it home.

Matthew 25:21 His lord said unto him, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou has been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of they lord."

A special thanks is extended to all who have cared for David over the years. Especially to Elder John Windley who was his faithful prayer partner and spiritual friend; to James Carraway, step-father in-law and personal care assistant for 15yrs. The love, support, prayers, and caring responses by all have truly been a reflection of God's love. Double honor is bestowed upon Elder John Massey and Sis. Joan Massey for their many visits and long hours during frequent hospitalizations.

Thank you to New Comer Funeral Home, 343 New Karner Rd., Colonie, to the Center for Disabilities Services, Albany, for your support & service, and to family and friends for your prayers, condolences, and contributions.