David O. Ely (Lebanon)'s Obituary
David Oliver Ely was born March 7, 1955, in Franklin, New Hampshire to Floyd Smith and Louise Thompson Smith. His mother later remarried, and he was adopted by his stepfather, Ray Ely at age 10. He passed away Thursday, September 26, 2024, in his home in Lebanon, Missouri surrounded by his wife and children. He was 69 years of age.
David was raised in New Hampshire and following high school he joined the United States Coast Guard. He followed his parents from New Hampshire to Missouri where he helped them with their family ranch. He was an avid horseman and enjoyed his time on the ranch with his siblings. He worked in construction for several years and then established his career as a truck driver. On May 1, 1976, he
was united in marriage to the love of his life, Sharleen. They shared over forty-eight years of love and happiness and lovingly raised their children.
David was preceded in death by his parents Ray Ely, Louise Ely, and Floyd Smith, brothers Ray Ely, Brian Smith, Floyd Smith, and Paul Smith.
David is survived by his wife, Sharleen; his daughter, Sabrina Pendergrass of Cookeville, TN; his son, Troy Morse, and his wife Tawnya; and his son Jesse Ely, all of Lebanon, Missouri; his grandchildren, Sophie Pendergrass, Katelyn Walters, Ashley Forrester, and Dylan Carpenter; and 9 great grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings, Ronnie Ely, Rusty Ely, Shane Ely, Mona Gibb, and Pheobe Ely.
David was a good friend to so many and loved his family very much. He never met a stranger in all his travels over the country. He is a huge supporter of Veteran’s groups and was a proud member of the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association (CVMA). In addition to his love of motorcycle riding, he also enjoyed hunting and fishing. A hobby of his was smoking meat at his home. He enjoyed having friends and family over to enjoy his delicious cooking with him.
We celebrate a life lived to the fullest, marked by a commitment of service to his country and a profound love for his family. David’s memory will be treasured in the hearts of his family, friends, and the numerous lives he touched.
A service will be held in the summer of 2025 at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen, New Hampshire.
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