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Davidson Day School Headmaster Latta M. Baucom passed away Sunday afternoon at the age of 54 after an almost three-year battle against liver cancer. Before his time as headmaster at the Davidson private school, Latta had held positions at three schools in Florida. He began as the first head of school at North Ridge Christian School in Haines City, then he worked as high school principal at All Saints Academy in Winter Haven, and later as high school principal at The Benjamin School in Palm Beach. Latta’s positions in education were less about the job than they were about forming connections with the families, faculty and students. He was an educator at his core and followed his passion for learning and teaching others, whether that be from a textbook or the priceless pieces of wisdom and advice he shared with many. Before becoming an educator, he had attended and graduated from Camden Military Academy in 1982. He went on to earn his undergraduate degree in economics at Wake Forest University in 1987, then received his master’s in business from Baylor University in 1992, and finally his Doctorate of Education in organizational leadership from Nova Southeastern University in 2016. In 2001, Latta founded the North American International School in Pretoria, South Africa, with his father. His dedication to the field of education was merely one example of his compassionate and selfless morale. He enrolled in the United States Army after graduating from Wake Forest and served three years of active duty from 1987 to 1990. Then, while earning his masters at Baylor, he was in the Army National Guard. After this, he served a two-year active duty tour with the North Carolina National Guard from 1996 to 1998. Even prior to his positions as an educator, he worked to help children and families as the Head of Children and Family Services for the North Carolina National Guard; this was his last act of duty. His time serving our country was recognized and awarded through several honors. These included a National Defense Service Medal, an Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal, an Army Service Ribbon, and his Parachutist Badge. Latta was preceded by his late mother Henrietta Baucom in 2017. He is survived by his father Kenneth Baucom, brother Ian Baucom, and sister Christianne Nieuwsma. Latta’s legacy continues through his wife Gina Baucom and his six children: Steven VanMeter, Jodi Waters, Danielle Baucom, Rachel Baucom, Abigail Baucom, and Joel Baucom. He is also succeeded by four grandchildren, three nephews, and four nieces. Latta’s most important passions and parts of his life were his family, his faith, and his service to his country. The memorial service will take place at Davidson College Presbyterian Church at 11 a.m. this Wednesday. Latta will be buried with military honors in Mount Zion Cemetery immediately following the service. Cavin-Cook Funeral Home, Mooresville, is serving the family of Mr. Baucom. Condolences may be made to the Baucom family at www.cavin-cook.com.

Tributes

Dr. Latta Michel Baucom

February 10, 1965 - July 28, 2019