David Webster Balding

David (Dave) Webster Balding, 92, of Leesburg Virginia, died peacefully at his farm on September 27, 2025.

Born on his grandparents' farm in McConnelsville Ohio, David attended grade and high school in Newark Ohio where he was in the marching band. Immediately upon graduation from high school (though he did not know how to swim), he and a friend decided to join the U.S. Navy. Later, he earned an appointment to and attended the Naval Academy Prep School and the United States Naval Academy at Annapolis, graduating in 1957. Along with learning to swim, he played lacrosse, soccer and learned to sail as well. He served a total of 30 years in the Navy Supply Corps in 14 duty stations/deployments, retiring as a Captain. After his Navy career, he spent another 20 years working in the civilian world, mostly in government logistics with the transportation company, Landstar.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Ruth Balding and his brother, Roger. He is survived by his devoted wife of 68 years, Shirley, 8 children, 16 grandchildren (really 25 and counting, because once you marry into the family, he counted you as one of his own) and 5 great grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Joyce Zinesmeister (David), sister Donna Hara (Hani), cousins, nieces and nephews and many beloved friends.

He was an outdoorsman his whole life. He was a devoted Scout and served as a leader for many Boy and Girl Scout troops wherever the family was stationed. He enjoyed fishing, deer and bird hunting, to include hunting wild turkeys on horseback. He loved a good dog and enjoyed the company of several over the years. For Dave, there was nothing better than hosting his family, friends and especially youth from church on the farm. Whether it was for a workday of running a chain saw to rip trees, fixing fence (again), or for a fun potluck party, the farm was open to all. Grandchildren were welcome for "camp" every summer – and they never wanted to leave. Dave was always manning the grill and making sure there was more than enough for everyone at his table. His video camera narration for every theater production, recital or sporting event was legendary. He learned to play golf and enjoyed those outings. Like his mother, he volunteered every year for the elections at the local polls. His most treasured titles in all the world were those of Husband, Dad and Papa.

Dave was a proud member of St. Francis de Sales Parish in Purcellville VA where he served as a Lector, Eucharistic Minister, sometimes an altar boy, and always a cheerful volunteer for anything the Knights of Columbus asked him to do. He loved sharing the story of Jesus, his Death and Resurrection by introducing any and everyone to his beloved Jerusalem Donkey. He did his part to ensure the church was an open and welcoming community.

Visitation is Friday 10/24 4 – 6 pm at Hall Funeral home in Purcellville VA. A Funeral Mass will be Saturday 10/25 11 am at St. Francis de Sales Parish, in Purcellville VA – all are welcome. Interment will be at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to to either the Wounded Warrior Project www.woundedwarriorproject.org or the St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church Building Fund, 37730 St. Francis Ct. Purcellville VA 20132 or online at https://onrealm.org/StFrancisdeSale/give/PBF