John David Lochala Jr.

John David Lochala Jr., 49, of Hot Springs, Ark., died Tuesday, February 5, 2019. He was an incredible spirit who left this world too soon. He spent the majority of his youth in Clinton, Arkansas where he attended middle school, and then High School in Shirley, where he graduated from in 1988. In High School, he was known by his friends as New Wave Dave, because he was a trend setter in music and fashion. He was a lover of all genres of music and art and had an incredible quick wit that brought joy and laughter to those that were fortunate enough to know him. He was a gifted pianist/composer and actor who shared this treasure with family and friends in a variety of settings. His love of gospel music was something that brought many of his friends together over the years. After graduating from High School in 1988, he spent some time in Nashville, Tenn., then decided to pursue his bachelor's degree in business and communications at University of the Ozarks in Clarksville, Ark. where he had fallen in love with the campus when visiting the Wilson-Munger Memorial Chapel and a sweet little baby grand piano that was housed there. He graced the Seay Theatre stage in many productions while in college – having a true gift of comic timing. Upon graduation from Ozarks in 1993 he developed a career in finance working for American Express and then finding his passion for numbers working for UA Beebe and then at UALR in Little Rock. He was able to enjoy his love of the arts while in Little Rock. He leaves behind so many family, friends and wonderful memories that will be cherished. A memorial service for friends and family will be held in Clarksville, Ark. at the Wilson-Munger Memorial Chapel on February 17th, 2019 at 2pm. In lieu of flowers, honorariums in his name can be made to University of the Ozarks/Capital Campaign, 415 North College Ave. Clarksville, Ark. 72830.