Ronald Leland David, 86, formerly of Viola, DE, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, March 21, 2026, surrounded by the love of family at Skyline Terrace Memory Lane in Woodstock, VA, after a courageous journey with vascular dementia.

Ron was born on December 30, 1939, on his family’s farm in Middletown, DE. Farm living helped shape the man he would become. There, he learned the value of hard work, integrity, and treating others with kindness—lessons he carried with him throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 65 years, Donna Lee Colbert David, the love of his life and faithful partner in every season; his sister Doris H Foraker; and his brother William Wallace David.

Ron leaves behind a legacy rooted deeply in love. He is survived by his children: Dane David (Denise) of Shalimar FL; Deanna Locke (Dan) of Strasburg VA; Devon David (Samantha) of Felton DE, along with seven grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren who brought him immeasurable joy. Known lovingly as “Poppop,” he delighted in every moment spent with them—playing, laughing, and proudly sharing stories about each one. His love for his family was steady, fierce, and unwavering.

He is also survived by his sisters, Dolores Brown and Gail Waigand (Richard), and his brother Robert David (Dyan), along with many extended family members and dear friends.

Ron graduated from Newark High School in 1957, where he met Donna, beginning a love story that would span over six decades. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, and service. After committing their lives to Christ, Ron answered a calling that would define the rest of his life—sharing the Gospel and shepherding others.

From humble beginnings on the dairy farm to pulpits across Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia, Ron faithfully served wherever he was called. He pastored churches in Deal Island, MD; Fishers Hill and Toms Brook, VA; Mt. Crawford and Weyers Cave, VA; Laurel, DE; and for over 40 years at Faith Community Church in Camden, DE.

But to those who knew him, Ron was more than a pastor—he was a teacher, a mentor, and a friend. Whether in the classroom at Strasburg High School or from the pulpit, he had a gift for making the truth come alive. He didn’t just preach about faith—he lived it, boldly and consistently, with a genuine love for people.

Throughout his 60 years of ministry, countless lives were touched by his kindness, his steady presence, and his commitment to Scripture. He had a way of making people feel seen, known, and cared for.

One of Ron’s favorite verses was Revelation 3:20:

“Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.” NKJV

Even in his own words, his heart remained clear:

“I go to join those who have gone before me in heaven, and there I wait for each of you—my very much loved family and friends.”

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 11, at 11:00 AM, with visitation beginning at 10:00 AM, at Faith Community Church in Camden, DE. Dan Locke will officiate. Burial will be private.

Memorials may be made to Faith Community Church, 2240 South DuPont Highway, Camden, DE 19901, or to Skyline Memory Lane, Attn: Activities 123 Lakeview Drive, Woodstock, VA 22664.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Skyline Memory Lane and Dr. Greg Byrd for the compassionate care and love shown to Ron over the past three years. A special thank you is given to his granddaughter, Rebecca Dillman, for the tender and personal care she gave her Poppop while working there.

You may submit your condolences online at www.stoverfuneralhome.com.

Stover Funeral Home and Crematory, Strasburg, VA is honored to serve the family of Mr. Ronald Leland David.