David Joseph Minnis

He was born to Concettina (Connie) Di Iorio Minnis and David Joseph Minnis, Sr in Paterson, NJ. The family moved to West Warwick, Rhode Island when he was five years old. He graduated in 1952 from West Warwick High School. He was an accomplished violinist and enjoyed the acting program during those years but declined a scholarship to Brown University for his violin skills to pursue his business interest at Manhattan College where he graduated in 1956. His life changing moment came when he attended his dear friend Joe and Adrienne Adamo’s wedding where he met the love of his life, Margaret FitzGerald. Two years later, he and Margot were wed and had four children. Elizabeth Ann Hendrix (Scott), Marianne Minnis Michels (David), David Joseph Minnis III (Jennifer) and Kerry Minnis Napper (Jeffrey). In his business career his opportunities landed in the insurance industry where he initially worked for The Continental Insurance Company moving from Rhode Island to New Jersey on to California and Arizona finally settling in Maryland in 1966 working as an underwriter and special agent. In 1972 he started with Stump, Harvey and Cook and over time became Chief Executive Officer and President of the firm later retiring in 1992 from Willis Corp who acquired the firm. His incredible work ethic and negotiation skills led to his successful career but when asked he would say “I had great people working with me”. His retirement years were shared between Maryland and Florida where he would enjoy time with his family, friends and playing bridge at the Vero Beach Yacht club. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 61 years, their children and spouses, beloved sister Mary Joan Matarese of Cranston, RI, several nieces, nephews and aunts Josephine Post and Gloria Martino. He so loved all his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and would always want them to remember “life is good”, Jessica Hendrix (Chris Owen) Chelsea and Hunter ; Christopher Hendrix (Cathy) Abigail and Samantha; Thomas, Ashley and Nicole Michels; Rachel, Emma and Catey Minnis; Benjamin, Austin and Margaret Napper. Services will be private.