Walter Dennis "David Colson"

Walter Dennis, also known as David Colson, age 79, passed away on August 15, 2026. He was born on October 19, 1946, in Cordele, Georgia, to his loving parents, the late Johnnie Lee and Laura Mae (nee West) Colson.

Walter was the beloved father of Michelle Kelly, Veronica “Denise” Colson Jarrells (Gene), Michelle “Yvette” Ford, Lonnie Colson, and Laura Colson. He was a loving stepfather to James Clark (Nicole) and Stacey Robinson. Walter was a cherished grandfather and great-grandfather of many.

Walter was also a dear brother to J.R. Dennis, Gracie M. Dennis-Jones (James M. Jones), Robert Dennis (Arnetta Dennis), Eddie C. Dennis (China Bell Dennis), Johnny B. Dennis, Willie Colson (Dorothy Colson), Baserine Colson-Grace (Kenneth Grace), and Bennie L. Colson (Joyce Colson). He was a beloved brother-in-law, cousin, uncle, great-uncle, and friend to many, including Rebecca Grace and Martha Martin, along with many other loved ones who will miss him dearly.

Walter was a hardworking man who took great pride in providing for his family. He worked at Ford before eventually becoming an entrepreneur and owning an interstate trucking company. A self-taught truck driver, Walter learned the old-school ways of reading maps and navigating by directions long before modern technology made traveling easier. He truly loved being behind the wheel of his truck and took great pride in his ability to get wherever he needed to go.

Walter had many passions and interests throughout his life. He enjoyed cowboy movies, music, all sports, horse racing, and especially following Michael Jackson. He worked at Northfield Racino and had a love for horse racing. He also had a particular appreciation for Lincolns and enjoyed cooking, especially good soul food—and his cornbread was a favorite.

Walter was known for always smelling good and looking good. He had a charismatic personality and was affectionately known as a ladies’ man. He was very talkative, knowledgeable, and always had something to say. Walter loved sharing what he knew and was never shy about offering a story, an opinion, or a lesson he felt someone needed to hear. He could talk for hours about the things he loved, especially his favorite sports and, of course, LeBron James.

Above all, Walter will be remembered for his strong personality, hard-working spirit, sense of humor, love of conversation, and the many stories and lessons he shared with those around him. He leaves behind a lifetime of memories that will continue to live on through his family and friends.

Family and friends are welcome on Thursday, August 27, 2026, from 5 to 7 p.m., at Slone & Co. Funeral Directors 13115 Lorain Ave. Cleveland, OH 44111.