NEWARK: David Frances Metheny, 77 of Newark, passed away Wednesday evening January 20, 2010 of congestive heart failure with his loving family at his side.

David was born on October 14, 1932 in Terra Alta, West Virginia to the late Jesse S. and Delphia (King) Metheny. He came to Ohio soon after his graduation in 1951. He found employment through Owens-Corning Fiberglas soon after his arrival. He would work there for 38 years. On April 10, 1953 he married the love of his life, Phyllis Jean Johnson. Ten days later he left to serve his country in the Korean War, until 1955.

In October of 1956, Davidâ??s first son was born, Mark David (Shelia) Metheny of Newark. David received four grandchildren by his first son, Brande Lee, Marissa Jean, Clark David and Mark Connor.

Son Dean Allen Metheny of Newark was born in 1959. He brought four grandchildren, Brooke Ellen, Nick, Stewart and Jared.

Daughter, Ruth Ellen (Gregory) Burns of Pataskala was born in 1962 and granddaughters, Chelsea Nicole (Wes) Delancey and Celestial â??Celesteâ? Noelle Lohr were added for Davidâ??s pleasure. Grandsonâ??s Jeremy (Rachel) and Keith (Jennifer) joined the family in 1993.

Fourth son, Dan Richard (Kimberly) Metheny of Newark was born in 1963 and Davidâ??s final five grandchildren were given. Adam Richard, Brittany Michelle, Grant Tylor, Krystal Lynn and finally, Jessica Ann were a blessing.

David also leaves behind five great grandchildren, Griffin, Owen, Keaton, Kenadie and Adelyn Jo.

David enjoyed his children and three seasons of sports were their family time together. Vacations and his Metheny Family Reunion each Labor Day weekend was the highlight of his year. He loved hunting and the serenity of the woods, his time alone with God and his thoughts. Eldest son Mark also shared in these moments with him.

David came from a large family; he was the 8th of 12 children. Brothers, Clyde, William, Frank, Revna, George, Frederick and Clarence preceded him in death. Surviving siblings include Samuel (Dortha) of Rittman, Ohio, Jesse S. (Doris) of Terra Alta, W.V., Betty (Charles) Richards of New Castle, PA and Robert (Marie) Metheny of Terra Alta, W.V.; and precious nieces and nephews who he dearly loved.

David worshiped with Pastor Anthony Bartlette at the Church of God of Licking County where he was an Usher/Greeter and also worked on countless church events with his daughter Ruth.

The family wishes to thank Heartland Hospice and his most precious nurses, Monica and Kena, who lovingly cared for us all. We are blessed and most grateful.

Friends and family may visit 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday, January 30, 2010 at the Church of God of Licking County, 2181 Riggs Rd., NE, Newark. A celebration of life service will be at 4:00 p.m. Sunday, January 31, 2010 at the church with Pastor Anthony Bartlette officiating. Burial will be at Newark Memorial Gardens.

The Newark Chapel of Vensil-Orr & Chute Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.