David Lynn Exley, 54, a resident of 226 Walker Drive, Meadville was pronounced dead shortly after his arrival at 8:26 AM Wednesday, October 8, 2014 in the emergency department of the Meadville Medical Center after suffering an apparent heart attack at his home.

He was born October 14, 1959 in Franklin, a beloved son of Oliver L. and Esther M. Williams Exley.

David attended the Calvary Baptist Christian Academy and was a 1978 graduate of the Meadville Area High School and had attended the Crawford County Vo-Tech where he studied Tool and Die making. He enrolled at Gannon University in Erie, where he studied electrical engineering.

David was a professional country and western musician. He was bassist, guitarist, vocalist and band leader; playing many local venues for more than 20 years; as well as living and playing in Nashville. “Jerry and the Boys”, “Shotgun” and “Gun Shy” were only a few of the bands that he helped form and played in throughout his career.

He was an avid CB and Ham radio operator and local Crawford County weather reporter. He enjoyed collecting musical record albums, repairing electronics, electronic equipment and musical instruments.

David was a “gentle giant” of a man. He touched the hearts of many in his travels, from a career as a professional musician — to sharing the Word of God.

He could pick up any instrument and serenade you with a melody or two; all flowing effortlessly deep from his heart.

As a friend, David was encouraging, up lifting and compassionate; where he would make you feel that the stars were reachable. David would talk with you for hours on end while always hearing your every word and giving to you the peace and comfort that you were searching for in a friend.

He would always make you laugh and forget what was troubling you. David was truly a man with a genuine heart whose presence will be deeply missed by many!

He was married to the former Christina Lindsley; who preceded him in death on January 19, 2009.

David is survived by his parents: Oliver L. and Esther W. Exley of Red Oak, TX and by two sisters: Cheryl Phillips and her husband Bernie of Denton, MD and Sara Lawrence and her husband Kevin of Houston, DE and by three brothers: Bruce Exley and his wife Linda of Ft. Worth, TX, Jonathan Exley and his wife Rosie of Arlington, TX and Timothy Exley and his wife LeAnna of North Richlands Hill, TX; in addition to many loving aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.

Although he and his wife were childless, he was the proud father figure to Robert Cross as well as to his Godsons: Justin and Kenny, who reside in the Meadville area.

In addition to his beloved wife, he was preceded in death by two infant brothers: Austin and Nathaniel Exley, by his maternal grandparents: Eugene and Sara Williams and by his paternal grandparents: John and Roxie Exley.

Family and close friends were invited to attend a graveside service in Dempseytown Lutheran Cemetery, Oakland Township on Monday afternoon.

Memorial contributions, if desired, may be directed in David’s name to The Worldwide Children’s Bible Mission, P.O. Box 36, Camden, Delaware 19954.

Funeral arrangements were under the direction of the Timothy E. Hartle Funeral Home, 1328 Elk Street, Franklin.

Please visit: www.hartlefuneralhome.com for further information and to leave a note of condolence.