David Franklin "Dave" Chesney

David Franklin “Dave” Chesney, beloved husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, and uncle, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Wilmington, Ohio, on March 6, 2026, at the age of 49, with his wife by his side.

Born on November 7, 1976, in Wilmington, Dave was the firstborn son of David A. and Shelia Chesney. A 1995 graduate of Wilmington High School, he proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1995 until 2002. He remained deeply involved in his community, serving as a 4-H advisor for the On Target and Pork Pride clubs and as a third-degree Knight in the Knights of Columbus.

Dave found great joy in the outdoors, whether camping, fishing, cooking over an open fire, or smoking meats. He was an avid New York Rangers fan and enjoyed practicing archery. Above all, he cherished time with his family.

He is survived by his wife of nearly 20 years, Melissa Chesney (Thackston); his children, Autumn (Andrew Rakes) Huston, Stewart Huston, Stanley Chesney, Isaac Chesney, Leah Chesney, Elaina Chesney, Molly Chesney, and Dorothy Chesney; his grandchildren, Seraphina Shafer, Dallas Mojica, and Winter Rakes; his parents, David A. and Shelia Chesney; his sister, Emily (John) Edwards; his niece, Addison Edwards; his nephew, Jack Edwards; and his in-laws, Kerry and Joyce Thackston. He was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Charlotte Shafer.