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David Ashby Baum, age 62, of Atlanta, Georgia passed away on December 15, 2020.
David was born December 1, 1958 in Danville, Virginia to Carolyn (Edwards) and E. Ashby Baum. He graduated from Midlothian High School in Midlothian, Virginia, and received a BS in Economics from the University of Virginia in 1981. While at UVA he met the love of his life, Chris Mathis, who became his wife October 3rd, 1981. They began their married life in Richmond Virginia, where David worked for United Virginia Bank while completing his Masters in Finance at Virginia Commonwealth University. After completing his Masters degree in 1988, David left UVB to join Lawyers Title as Risk Manager. He seized an opportunity to work as a lender for a small bank, eventually going back to Lawyers Title where he served as a co-consultant, traveling throughout the northeast. He returned to UVB/Crestar briefly as a commercial lender, until his Lawyers Title boss lured him to Charlotte, NC as state manager in November of 1993. In March of 1998 he joined Chicago Title as state manager of North Carolina. 2002 brought another move to Atlanta to become the Georgia State Manager for Fidelity National Financial, where he rose through the ranks to become EVP and Division Manager of Fidelity National Financial with responsibilities for operations in ten states. He was beloved by all of those that worked for and with him, whether it be a new employee or the CEO…he treated everyone with the same respect.
David enjoyed spending time with family and friends, golfing, grilling on his Big Green Egg, watching & attending sporting events (especially his Hoos, Dawgs, and Falcons), and walking the beach. His happy place was either Seagrove, Florida or Rock Creek Cattle Company in Montana, and thankfully he was able to enjoy both this past year.
David was a man of many titles – Optime, author, professor, museum curator/CEO/tour guide, commissioner, Attic Airlines mechanic, marathon runner (it was one time in 1980, but he would want us to include this), coach/general manager, boss, grandpa (Abu), dad, and husband.
David was active in his community teaching confirmation, coaching and taking leadership roles in little league sports, working as a board member of the Ronald McDonald House, keeping score and announcing for the high school baseball team, serving as a HOA board member, CEO of the infamous ‘Room of Enchantment’, and other volunteer jobs. He was a published author of his book(s) of advice for his three children entitled “When You Wake Up, Get Up and When You Get Up, Do Something.” All who heard “readings” were amused, to say the least. He was eager to lend a hand when a neighbor had a need, and frequently organized outings for his friends and family. An avid UVA fan, he was thrilled to watch his Cavaliers win the 2019 National Basketball Championship in person (still the reigning champs!)!
David is survived by his parents, Ashby and Carolyn Baum, his wife, Chris, his three children Gentry Kozub (Matt), Ashby and Christian, grandsons Thomas and Patrick Kozub, his brother Steve (Kay), nephew Carter, niece Berkley.
Due to COVID restrictions, a small family service will be held in January. For those that wish to watch the service, a link to the live-stream will be posted online at https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/davidbaum.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to either Decatur City Church, 4400 North Point Parkway Suite 100, Alpharetta, GA 30022 or Atlanta Mission at atlantamission.org.
David always made it a point to tell his friends and his family that he loved them, so in honor of David, love those close to you and tell people you love “I love you” frequently!
The family is being assisted by Georgia Cremation, 3570 Buford Hwy #202, Duluth, GA 30096 (678) 584-0914 www.GeorgiaCremation.com
Helen W Davis says
David will always hold a special place in my heart. He treated every employee with dignity and respect. He was a true jewel.
Steve Holman says
I had the pleasure of meeting David and his wife Chris at my Son and Daughter in Law’s rehearsal dinner. He was so nice and personable and acted as if he had known me for some time . Later I met him on the beach along with Chris. Again so easy to talk to. I told my wife what a nice guy and couple they both were. I can see by his obituary he was a very accomplished individual but treated me as his equal. I’m glad I had the pleasure to meet him and sad that I didn’t get to know him sooner. RIP David.
Herman Hornee says
Janice and Herman Horne were neighbors of Chris and David in Charlotte, N.C.
They were a popular and respected family. We pray for the entire family! Thankful for families like the Baum’s!
Rene Burns says
Our condolences to your family Chris. Mike ,Bryce, Taylor and I are so very sorry for the loss of your husband and your children’s father and your grandsons’ grandfather! I know all of you will cherish the memories of David. God Be With You All💗💙💗💙
The Stastny’s says
Our condolences to the whole family. David was an amazing person and will missed by all. Love and prayers to TBS. Rest In Peace 🙏❤️ David.
Arika Stiles says
His lighthearted, Greek salad loving, generous and kind soul will truly be missed. The love he had for his wife, family and people was palpable and so very inspiring. I will never forget what David and Chris did for my family after Hurricane Michael. I am honored to have known such a man. I pray for peace and comfort for you Chris and your family.
Chris and Barbara Dyrda says
We met David at social, pop-up parties in our Highland Park Community. I got to know him as a smart, kind and caring family man. He helped his neighbors and served on the community HOA Board. We will miss him. Our condolences to the Baum Family.
The Noble family says
Chris, your family has been dear to us and we weep along with you on your loss. David loved his “boys” at Beta as did you and the rest of us. We fondly cherish our memories with you all in Athens. We will continue to see/enjoy Christian when his schedule allows him to visit, and one day soon hope you too will come out to visit. Prayers, hugs and peace to you all.
Kathy Lucas says
Chris ~ I am so sorry … sending prayers and hugs for you and your family!!!
Cindy Eade says
Dear Chris and Family,
What a beautiful tribute to your very accomplished David. Your love for David and your family shines through in all your writing. May that love give you strength and comfort as you go through the grieving process for this very special Man. 🙏❤️
Linda Brown says
David was such a kind, caring person. When I became the Fidelity National State Manager, he was so supportive and inclusive. I feel like I was given a gift as I was able to sit next to him at a retirement luncheon not too long ago. We were able to get caught up on our lives. Chris and family, my thoughts and prayers are with you right now. He left an indelible impression on me and all who knew him.