Dec 19, 1967 - Feb 14, 2026

• David Stephen Braithwaite (“Bam Bam”)

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of David Stephen Braithwaite, lovingly known as “Bam Bam,” who passed away in Ottawa on February 14, 2026.

Born and raised in Whitney Pier, Sydney, Nova Scotia, David was the first grandchild on both his maternal and paternal sides — the beginning of a new generation in our families. He was the only child of his father, David Braithwaite, and the eldest son of his late mother, Edna Hearn Williams.

Whitney Pier was more than his hometown — it was a community where everyone knows one another. No matter how far we travel across the country, our connections remain strong. Our community understands hardship and struggle, and people show up for each other, especially in times like this. We have always considered ourselves fortunate to come from “the right side of the tracks.”

David is survived by his father; his brother, Christian Davidson; and his sister, Mary Beth Davidson. He is also lovingly remembered by his uncles Sheldon, Cyril, John, and Dennis; his aunts Ada, Josie, and Theresa; his nieces and nephew; many cousins; and his childhood friend, Stevie Mintus, whom he always spoke of with great affection.

He was predeceased by his maternal grandparents, Mary and Tom Hearn; his paternal grandparents, Evelyn and Beryl Braithwaite; and his grandfather, Ivan “Bubs” Williams.

David was active, spontaneous, and full of personality. He was resilient, resourceful, observant, and unpretentious. He understood struggle — he lived it — and when he could, he quietly helped others who had fallen on hard times.

Though life was not always easy for him, and he was often harder on himself than anyone else could ever be, David remained deeply compassionate toward others. Even when he felt apart from many, he continued to ask about people, wanting to know if they were well, if anyone was sick, or if there was news from home.

He loved the outdoors and felt most at peace near the water. An excellent swimmer, he enjoyed fishing, camping, and canoe trips. He loved movies, history, and shows like Jeopardy, and had an exceptional memory for facts and movie lines, often quoting scenes word for word.

As a boy, he looked forward to Saturday movies and Sunday skating — and proudly learned to skate with the help of his Aunt Ada, with whom he shared a particularly close and cherished bond.

In recent months, David had been thinking about returning home to help care for his father. He spoke of wanting a fresh start. He was funny, intelligent, and capable of so much.

David will be cremated in Ottawa, and in early June he will be brought home to the arms of his family and community for a funeral service. Details will be announced once arrangements are finalized. He will be laid to rest with his mother at Forest Haven Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that we honor David by sharing kindness and love with those who may need a hand up. Hug your people a little tighter. Love a little more.