David Lee Whitesell

David Lee Whitesell, 76, of Terre Haute, passed away on July 17, 2025, surrounded by his beloved family. He was born October 19, 1948, to Russell Lee Whitesell and Ernestine Ault Whitesell. David was preceded in death by his parents; brother Douglas Whitesell; in-laws Lawrence and Betty King; and son-in-law John "Jay" Massey. He leaves behind his devoted wife of 56 years, Elizabeth Whitesell, brother Danny Whitesell, son David Lee Whitesell (Angela), daughter Beth Massey (Brent), five grandchildren, Chelsea Lentes (Thomas), Dillon Massey (Tiffany), Mitchell Massey, Ellie Massey, and Brent David Whitesell; and two great-grandchildren, Emma Catherine Lentes and Thomas David Lentes. David proudly served his country as a Marine with the Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 9th Marines, 3rd Marine Division during the Vietnam War from 1968 to 1970. He has been the Post Commander of the Riley American Legion Post 328 for the past 11 years, an honorary member of the Legion Riders of Riley American Legion Post 328, and a lifetime member of both the VFW and the Marine Corps League. David was a graduate of Honey Creek High School Class of 1966, where he played football. He spent much of his life serving others. David started with his work at Hulman and Company, followed by Lovelace Trucking Company, and ultimately dedicating 33 years of service as a Rural Letter Carrier for the U. S. Postal Service before retiring. David was a man who loved fiercely- his wife, children, grandchildren, and his country. His joy was in the simple moments, from hosting sleepovers with his grandchildren filled with board games and pizza, to spending time with his great-grandchildren. He found peace in sharing stories, often with the History Channel on in the background, reminiscing with friends and family with tales that bridged the past and present. David lived a life defined by honor, duty, and an unshakable commitment to both his country and his community. His service in the Vietnam War as a Marine shaped him into a man who deeply understood the value of sacrifice and loyalty. His work didn't stop at the battlefield. Whether leading in the American Legion or dedicating his life to public service as a Rural Letter Carrier, David consistently placed others before himself, showing up not just for his family but for anyone in need. His life was a testament to the idea that service is not limited to one's uniform but is a daily act of integrity, kindness, and respect for those around you. David's devotion to his family, friends, and community was felt in every gesture, every conversation, and every moment of his life. He lived with a sense of duty to honor those who came before him and those who would follow, ensuring his legacy would be one of strength, love, and a profound dedication to the values that matter most. David's service will forever be remembered- not only on the duties he fulfilled, but in the love he gave, the relationships he nurtured, and the example he set for generations to come. Visitation will be held on Friday, July 25, 2025, at DeBaun Springhill Chapel from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and again Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until service time. Service will be held on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at the funeral home at 10:00 a.m. Pastor Tim Fagg will officiate. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donation of remembrance may be made to the American Legion Riley Post 328, Marine Corps League Toys for Tots, or the Lighthouse Mission. Online condolences may be made to www.debaunfuneralhomes.com. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of David Lee Whitesell, please visit our floral store.