David Choate

Choate is a renowned public speaker, dancer/choreographer and lighting designer. His works have been featured on multiple tours and television shows, with Emmy nominated choreography to his credit.

Genni Lib Choate experienced an awkward moment that allowed fate to find her.

Early Life and Education

David Choate was born on April 15, 1832 in McNairy, Tennessee and served in the Beebe Public Schools for five years, serving as class president each year for that duration.

He was an active member of both the Beebe Kiwanis Club and Beebe Chamber of Commerce, having been elected to the Arkansas House of Representatives for White and Lonoke counties in 2011. Additionally, he served on both the House Education Committee and State Board of Agriculture.

After leaving the Senate, he became an accomplished lawyer and author of several popular books. He quickly earned a reputation for his witticisms and ability to argue a point persuasively.

Professional Career

David is an experienced attorney who specializes in private equity transactions and corporate matters. His expertise encompasses all areas of private and public company law, from mergers & acquisitions to recapitalizations, joint ventures and sales; plus he has handled cases across a variety of industries from software to healthcare.

Choate has been recognized as a Massachusetts Super Lawyers Rising Star every year since 2012. As part of the firm’s Private Equity Group, he handles private investment fund formation and mergers & acquisitions transactions. Furthermore, he provides advice to clients on compliance and government investigations with an emphasis on fraud and abuse issues within healthcare services.

Achievements and Honors

David Choate was an exemplary father, stepfather, grandfather and husband who shared a deep appreciation for the Arkansas River.

He served in the Arkansas House of Representatives for three terms and was appointed to numerous commissions and state boards. Although a well-known businessman, he never took on duties that required 100% dedication.

He was the recipient of numerous awards and honors, including induction into both the Arkansas River Historical Society Hall of Fame and National Grain Association Hall of Fame.

Personal Life

David Choate was an influential member of his community. He served on the Floyd School board for several years and served as president of the Floyd Chamber of Commerce.

He served as past chairman of the Arkansas River Historical Society and was inducted into its Hall of Fame in 2017.

Penny Choate recalled her husband as a man of few words but always made an impact on those around him. He was an inspiring mentor and friend, she said.

He worked in the grain and barge business along the Arkansas River for about two decades, building relationships with customers across inland waterways. As Vice President of Grain & Barge Operations at Bruce Oakley Inc. until his passing in March 2017, he was an exemplary professional and kindhearted individual.

Net Worth

David Choate was a dedicated father, stepfather, grandfather and husband. He often worked from sunrise to night in one way or another to make ends meet.

His service in the Arkansas House of Representatives for three terms and appointments to various commissions and state boards were truly remarkable, according to Penny Choate of Searcy. According to his widow, Penny Choate of Searcy, his contributions were immeasurable.

At the time of his passing, Norman was vice president of grain and barge operations for Bruce Oakley Inc. He had a loyal and dedicated workplace that fostered many long-lasting relationships with customers along the inland waterways of America, Norman recalled. Furthermore, he was described as “a quiet yet thoughtful gentleman who never met a stranger.”