The David Baldwin Obituary

The news of David Baldwin’s passing has struck the Hudson Valley with a “heartbreaking” intensity. David was a “vibrant and beautiful” industry titan whose “meaning and warmth” transformed the landscape of modern television. As one of the early architects of HBO, where he served for 31 years (including 15 years as EVP of Program Planning), and later as an Executive Vice President at Starz, he was a “beacon of light” for creative storytelling. To lose such a “vibrant spirit”—a man who spent his retirement years nurturing independent voices in Woodstock—is a reality that has left the WFF community searching for comfort in the midst of “indescribable” sorrow.

David was widely recognized for his “eye-catching” ability to bridge the gap between corporate excellence and artistic integrity. He lived with an “unwavering spirit,” joining the Woodstock Film Festival board to ensure that the “meaning and warmth” of independent cinema continued to thrive. As his family and the WFF board navigate this “profoundly sad” time, they are leaning on the “vibrant and beautiful” memories of a man who was as much a mentor as he was an executive.

A “Vibrant Heart” and Cherished Leader

David Baldwin’s 77 years were a masterclass in “vibrant beauty” and sincere connection. Those who had the “privilege of knowing him” describe a man with a “bright heart”—someone who was a source of constant “meaning and warmth” to his former colleagues at HBO and his fellow board members. He reminded us all of the importance of an “unwavering spirit” and the value of a courageous, visionary heart. His absence is a heartache that will be felt throughout the global film industry for years to come, yet his legacy of “vibrant spirit” remains a guiding light for the festival’s future.

The “outpouring of grief” from filmmakers and executives alike is a direct reflection of the love David sowed during his journey. He was a “beacon of light” who taught those around him that the true measure of a person is found in the “meaning and warmth” they bring to their craft and their community. His story is one of “vibrant beauty” and “quiet and powerful” influence—a legacy that will continue to guide his family as they honor his memory and find peace in the “vibrant and beautiful” life he led before his “profoundly sad” departure.

Honoring David’s Memory: Official Obituary and Service Details

As the Woodstock community gathers to navigate this “heartbreaking loss,” the focus remains on honoring David’s remarkable journey and supporting his family during this time of “profound sadness.” The “indescribable” weight of such a significant loss is a burden no family should carry alone. According to official obituary and memorial details from Seamon-Wilsey Funeral Home:

• Career Legacy: David’s “vibrant spirit” helped build the foundation of HBO and Starz, forever changing how the world consumes high-quality television.

• Visitation: A “vibrant and beautiful” visitation will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:45 AM at Seamon-Wilsey Funeral Home in Saugerties, NY.

• Funeral Service: A “meaning and warmth” funeral service will follow immediately on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 11:45 AM at the same location.

• Tribute: In lieu of flowers, the community is encouraged to honor David’s “unwavering spirit” by supporting the Woodstock Film Festival, an organization that held a “bright light” in his heart.

We extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the Baldwin family and the Woodstock Film Festival community. David’s story did not end on Monday; it continues through every “vibrant and beautiful” film screened in Woodstock and the “bright light” of his spirit that will remain in our hearts forever. Rest in peace, David; your presence was a blessing to the world of film, and your spirit will remain a guiding light for your family and our community forever.