David W. Ashby

David Willard Ashby, beloved father, husband, grandpa, brother, friend, pastor, chaplain, and servant of his Heavenly Father, passed away at the age of 73 on Saturday, November 15. A man of unwavering faith and tireless compassion, he was a husband, grandpa, father, brother, pastor, chaplain, and friend ~ touching countless lives in ways both profound and rooted in his constant readiness to lift others.

Pastor Dave (PD) devoted his life to serving others. As a longtime pastor, and current servant at Trinity Community Fellowship he has always ministered to his congregation with grace, humility, and a heart always open to the needs of those around him. He was also a dedicated chaplain for both the Champaign and Urbana Fire Departments as well as chaplain for the Champaign and Urbana Police Departments, standing beside first responders through their most difficult hours, offering comfort, strength, and prayer.

His calling often took him beyond the walls of home, responding to crises at all hours of the day or night. He gave of himself fully and freely — sacrificing time with his own family to care for the families of others (or complete strangers). Though it was not always easy, his commitment to service was rooted in his deep belief that loving others was the highest expression of faith.

He was Loved deeply — more than he knew, not only by his family, but by an entire community who experienced his presence, both uncommon and unforgettable. He was a steady presence during emergencies, a calming voice in moments of chaos, and a spiritual guide when hope seemed lost.

He is survived by three children, Mark (Kim) Ashby and Michael (Tammy) Ashby, both of Mahomet, and Melinda DelRossi (Steve Tondini) of Villa Grove; 9 grandchildren, Keagon, Cade, Camden, and  Corbin Ashby (Mahomet); Kennedy, Parker, and Carson Ashby (Mahomet), Addison DelRossi (Ft. Myers, FL); and Nick DelRossi; each of which he was extremely proud of and each will carry forward his legacy of love, service, and selflessness. He is also survived by his sister Vickie (Tim) Shahan, Nick, Ashleigh, and Gavin (Paducah, KY); brother Mike (Marcia) of Champaign; beloved Aunt Betty Clasey (Champaign); Matt (Susan) McGhee, and our adopted nieces Micah and Zoe (Phoenix, AZ). 

Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort knowing he is now at peace — in the presence of his Savior and the company of countless lives he shaped through his faithfulness. No doubt he has reunited with Janet, his beloved whom he deeply missed; his mom, who is probably chewing him out (for something); and playing catch with his dad along the River of Life.

A visitation, hosted by Trinity Community Fellowship, will be held on Friday, November 21 from 3-7 pm at Grace Church, 800 W Oak St, Mahomet, IL. First Responder walk through will take place at 6:30. The funeral, celebrating Dave's life of service, will be held on Saturday, November 22 at 11:00 a.m. at Grace Church. Burial will immediately follow at Shiloh Cemetery, Mahomet.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Trinity Community Fellowship, Farmer City (fctrinity.net/give) or The Dave Ashby Fund for First Responders at First Federal Bank. Donations may be made in person or through the mail at 1311 S. Neil St, Champaign, IL 61820 or via Venmo (@Mike-Ashby-cfd). 

In honor of his commitment to serving others, the family will continue to serve the first responders of our community. And to the emergency service family, we sincerely thank you for your incredible support over many years, we are truly humbled.

Dad, you ran the race, you fought the good fight, and you finished the course God set before you. His faith never wavered. His heart never closed. And his legacy will never be forgotten.

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