When you meet someone like David Seagraves, who has lived an astonishing 90 years, you’d think he’s got another 90 in him. To say the least, David Seagraves has lived a full and fascinating life.

From serving in the Navy to running multiple businesses, raising four children, and diving deep into theology, his journey has taken him across industries, experiences, and even faith traditions. Now, at 10 Wilmington Place, he’s embarked on a new passion project—his YouTube series, What You Didn’t Learn in Sunday School—with the help of Resident Engagement Coordinator Lauren Maloney, who assists him with the technical side of the project.

A life of service and entrepreneurship

David grew up in Columbus, Ohio, and after high school, he enlisted in the Navy at just 16 years old. He served during the Korean War as a boatswain's mate, working on small boats and artillery. After several years in the military, he returned home, eager to start the next chapter of his life.

That next chapter began with his high school sweetheart, Sarah, whom he married soon after returning from the Navy. They eventually settled in Dayton, where David built a career in both corporate and entrepreneurial ventures.

He became a director at Elder Beerman while also running a chain of hair salons throughout Ohio. But his business acumen didn’t stop there. When he was asked to take over a struggling cosmetology school in Dayton, he stepped in and turned things around.

"None of the students were passing their testing in Columbus," he recalled. "So they made me an offer. I still kept my Elder Beerman work, but I went over and took charge of the school. And after that, all the students passed their test."

His work extended internationally as well, teaching cosmetology in South America and working in hair science. His expertise once led him to a rather unique challenge: straightening the tail of a Budweiser Clydesdale named Chappie.

"I’d never done an animal’s hair before," he laughed, "but it gave me even more experience I never would have had."

A new passion at 10 Wilmington Place

Faith has always been a central part of David’s life. More than 50 years ago, he found the Bahá'í Faith, which embraces unity and the common teachings of all world religions. Today, he shares his theological insights through his YouTube series, which he started during his time living at 10 Wilmington Place.

"I do a lot of writing, and I have a YouTube class," he said. "Lauren helped me set it up. She’s great. I wouldn’t have been able to figure out the tech on my own."

His discussions explore religious history, challenge traditional interpretations of scripture, and encourage deeper thinking.
"Young people love it," he said. "We talk the same language."

Finding a home at 10 Wilmington Place

After Sarah’s passing, David’s daughters encouraged him to find a place where he could continue living independently while being part of a supportive community. He toured several senior living communities in Dayton but ultimately chose 10 Wilmington Place.

"My daughter said, ‘Dad, you need to move.’ So I went around to all the places in Dayton. They charge a lot of money, but the facilities were mediocre. They all charge more than this place, but the standards were absolutely nothing like this place,” he said of his experience looking for a retirement community. 

Though he prefers to spend his time writing, teaching, and debating ideas rather than attending group activities, David values the relationships he’s built at 10 Wilmington Place.

"There’s a real sense of community here," he said. "...I’m happy."

Even in his golden years, David remains sharp, curious, and passionate about sharing knowledge. Whether he’s discussing the metaphors of religious texts or reflecting on his years of business, teaching, and travel, one thing is clear: he’s not done learning or teaching just yet.