David Lee Dayton

David Lee Dayton, age 82, of Delaware, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 16, at Dublin Methodist Hospital.

Born on January 21, 1943, in Moundsville, West Virginia, David was a proud graduate of The Ohio State University, where he earned a degree in Chemistry. He began his professional career with Dow Chemical in Midland, Michigan, where he worked for five years before joining Chemical Abstracts Service in Columbus, Ohio. There, he dedicated over three decades as Manager of Research and Development, leaving a lasting impact on the field.

David was a longtime member of the American Chemical Society and other professional organizations. Beyond his career, he was an avid bird watcher, a passionate traveler, and enjoyed following the financial markets.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Mary Dayton; his beloved wife, Carol; brothers Raymond and Fred; and sisters Jeanette, Margaret, and Lottie.

David is survived by his sons: Gary Lee Dayton (Huda) and their children, Abraham and Sarah, of McLean, Virginia; and Paul David Dayton (Stephanie) and their daughters, Jennifer of Tampa, Florida, and Valerie of Concord, California. He is also survived by his sister, Helen Harris of Tacoma, Washington, as well as many nieces, nephews, and a dear friend, Brad Warner.

At the family's request, no flowers, please. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made online or via mail to: The Legacy Fund of The Columbus Foundation, 1234 East Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43212 (https://www.thelegacyfund.org/) OR The National Audubon Society, 225 Varick Street, 7th floor, New York, NY 10014 (https://www.audubon.org/ - then Membership and Giving) 

David will be remembered for his intellect, curiosity, and kindness. He leaves behind a legacy of love, knowledge, and quiet strength.