David Luther Pavey

David Luther Pavey, a man who clearly believed the phrase "stubborn as a mule" was meant as a compliment—and judging by his life, he was right—passed away at home in Dayton, Ohio, on April 26, 2026. Born in the bustling metropolis of Wilmington, Ohio, on September 8, 1969, David graduated from Judson High School in Converse, TX, in 1989, a feat that clearly set the tone for a life filled with, as those who knew him well will attest, a hefty dose of rotten humor.

David’s career as a truck driver for several companies allowed him to live the dream of many: endless open roads and countless hours with the radio cranked. His stint in The United States Army added a layer of discipline—though not enough to curb that stubborn streak—and deepened his appreciation for a good story or two.

An avid reader with a particular fondness for Sci-Fi, David collected a wealth of unnecessary knowledge that made him the reigning champion of trivia nights and podcaster extraordinaire. When he wasn’t immersed in futuristic worlds or tuning into his favorite podcasts, he was likely blasting ZZ Top, proving that his taste in music was as timeless as his wit.

David is survived by his stepchildren Rachel, Rebecca, Jeremy, and Cassandra; step father Allen (Deb) Mills, his sister Lenore Pavey and Dee Pavey, stepsister Amy (Rick) Main, nieces Lora Rinaldi and Abigail (Aaron) Strzyzewski, nephews Christopher (Andrea) Pavey and Michael (Hailee) Pavey, as well as an impressive entourage of 16 great nieces and nephews, keep the family tree well-rooted and thriving where David once firmly planted his stubborn feet.

David’s parents, David L. Pavey and Ethel M. Mills, preceded him in death, no doubt relieved to pass the family’s stubborn torch to such a worthy bearer.

If you had the pleasure (or challenge) of talking with David, you’d remember a funny, sharp, and sometimes downright rotten character—a man who could out-stubborn a mule and out-read a bookworm. His legacy is one of  laughter and enough podcast trivia to last a lifetime. Rest in peace, David—you finally found a road you couldn’t argue with.

Memorial service to be held at Church of the Brethren (1431 W. Main St Troy, Ohio 45373) on Monday May 11th, 2026 at 12:00 pm with celebration of life to follow until 4:00 pm after the service.