Sunrise March 15, 1945 — Sunset April 11, 2026
David Pennington Stroud, a brilliant mathematician, dedicated educator and beloved husband and father passed away peacefully on April 1, 2026. He was 81.
Born March 15, 1945, in Charlottesville, Virginia, to Margarette Pennington and Jesse Stroud, David was also raised by his stepfather, William Murray. His intellectual gifts were apparent early; he began his formal education at age 3 and skipped the first grade. At Jackson P. Burley High School, David served as class president, played varsity basketball, and performed as a saxophonist in the marching band.
He earned a Bachelor of Arts in mathematics from Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois. While there, he joined Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., eventually serving as chapter president. His fraternity brothers remember him as a man of integrity and a steady leader—qualities that defined his lifelong membership.
David moved to Minneapolis to join Honeywell. His technical prowess contributed to the design of control systems for space shuttles and helicopters. While at Honeywell, he earned an MBA from the University of St. Thomas. Later, he served as a lead research scientist for the Minnesota Department of Health.
Beyond the laboratory, David was a pillar of the Twin Cities academic community. He taught mathematics and statistics at Minneapolis Community and Technical College (MCTC) and Cardinal Stritch University.
In May 1972, David married Rhoda Miller, the love of his life. Together they raised two children, David and Lara. He also held special bonds with cousins Shawnee Tate, Will Taylor, Bryant Witcher, Marilyn Edwards and bonus grandchildren Gavin Caldwell, and William Sanders—each one a source of warmth, laughter, and deep affection in his life.
David enjoyed jazz, crossword puzzles, and cheering for his favorite basketball and football teams.
He is survived by his wife, Rhoda; son, David; daughter, Lara; sister-in-law, Jennifer Rawley (Von); niece, Jennifer Lloyd (Levan); and many extended family and friends.
A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, May 1, 2026, at the Cremation Society of Minnesota, 4343 Nicollet Ave. S., Minneapolis. Visitation begins at noon, with a reception to follow.