David Rodney Mellinger

David Mellinger, beloved husband, father and “Daddy-O,” died peacefully in his sleep on September 6th.

David was, above all, a simple man. In an ever complicated world, he never belied his Pennsylvania Dutch roots: hard work, discipline, thrift, love of family, and above all to do what the Lord requires of us: to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly before God.

David was a wonderful father and was always up for any adventure. He played endless games with his young children and, later in life, enjoyed music festivals, traveling, skiing, and sharing new experiences with his adult children and siblings. His loyalty, humility, and dependability were cherished by his children, as he remained a steady hand in guiding them into adulthood. What may be his greatest joy was his last role in life, being “Daddy-O” to his five grandchildren. His gentle, loving, and faithful presence will be deeply missed.

David and Jill shared a love of the ocean. After becoming empty nesters and paying the last college tuition bill, they found the perfect home for their large family overlooking the Gulf of Mexico on Pensacola Beach, Florida. Over the last six years, David found great happiness hosting friends and family there.

David was gifted with a keen analytical mind which brought him much success in business. Those he worked for valued David for the tremendous skills he brought as a member of an executive team. To those who worked for him, he was beloved for his patience, kindness and fairness. He was a proud University of Florida alumnus and loved SEC football, following his beloved Gators and his adopted team, the Texas A&M Aggies.

David was born on August 31, 1959 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Jill Johnson Mellinger, four children, five grandchildren and three grandchildren on the way; Erin and Justin Memmott and Samuel David and August Memmott; Tori and Andrew Plugge and Eve, AJ and Cameron David Plugge; Ryan and Carly Mellinger, and Jenna Mellinger. He is also survived by his siblings Albert Mellinger, Linda Carneal, and Robert Mellinger.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to one of the following

At the time of David’s passing, he and Jill had taken up the cause to help build a church in Vickery Meadow, one of the most blighted areas in the city of Dallas and less than 2 miles from their home. Checks can be made payable to Youth Believing in Change (YBC) with “David: Mission Vickery” in the memo line and sent to 8574 Stults Road, Dallas, TX 75243.

Also dear to David’s heart was his church community, Eastside Community Church. Checks can be made payable to Eastside Dallas Church with “David: Building Improvement Plan” in the memo line and sent to 7730 Abrams Rd., Dallas, Texas 75231.

Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of His saints.

Psalms 116:15