COVID claims another life in the Valley and if you've bought a car here in the past 47 years, there's a good chance you might have bought it from owner David Flynn.

He died at the age of 81 on Thanksgiving.

David Flynn was born in Cleveland but moved to Columbiana in 1974 when he bought his first dealership. That was Columbiana Buick Oldsmobile.

Over the years he added Chevrolet and Cadillac to that dealership.
Business was so good, Flynn went on to buy Donnell Ford of Boardman in 1982 and then the Honda Store of Boardman in 1991.

He bought several more dealerships after that to become one of the most successful auto group owners in Northeastern Ohio.

With that success Flynn showed his generosity by donating to schools and to Angels for Animals in Canfield.

"They are just always there when we need something. He gave us a van, a truck to plow our lots. They funded the spay and neuter facility here with a million dollar gift so they are always generous," said Diane Less of Angels For Animals.

Less says she believes the Flynns probably donated more than $2 million to Angels over the years.
They lowered the flags there in his honor.

According to his family, David passed away from Covid even after taking all possible precautions.
Because of Covid, memorial services will be held at a later date.

The family has requested any donations go directly to Angels for Animals.

Flynn Automotive Group will continue to be owned and operated by the Flynn family.