David Stanley Eblen, 83, of Lee’s Summit, Missouri, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on June 14, 2026. Born on February 13, 1943, in Kansas City, Missouri, David lived a life defined by service, leadership, friendship, and unwavering devotion to family and community.
He was a proud graduate of Belton High School and attended Missouri Boys State. He went on to earn his Bachelor of Science from the University of Missouri–Columbia in 1965. While attending the university, he was an active member of the Beta Theta Pi fraternity. In all these arenas, he formed friendships that would last a lifetime.
Following graduation, he proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, attaining the rank of Captain.
After his military service, David moved to Branson, Missouri, and began a long and successful banking career, starting at Security Bank and Trust Company, where he rose through the ranks to become President and CEO in 1981. He would later serve as president of three additional banks before retiring after a distinguished career.
David was deeply committed to the Branson community. He held leadership roles and served as president of the Branson–Hollister Rotary Club, Skaggs Community Hospital Board of Directors, and the Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce, as well as several other civic organizations. He was part of the committee that helped establish Ozark Mountain Christmas, a tradition that became a hallmark of the community. He taught classes and served on the Board of Directors for the College of the Ozarks, where he once even held a role in a student-led musical.
David was an enthusiastic supporter of the Belton and Branson Pirates, Missouri Tigers, Kansas City Chiefs, the Royals, and every team his grandchildren ever played on.
In 1963, he married the love of his life, Jane Pilley. Together they shared 63 years filled with family, travel, boating, collecting, and countless other adventures. They enjoyed pool parties, cards, and dinners with lifelong friends. Their home was one of love, laughter, and hospitality. He was a devoted and supportive father to his three children and a proud papa to five grandchildren. Nothing brought him more joy.
David was preceded in death by his father, George, his sister, Jean Kay, his son, David Mark, and his mother, Margaret.
He is survived by his wife, Jane, son, Geoff, daughter, Heather, and 5 grandchildren : Alexandra, Clayton, Delaney, Jack, and Cole. He also leaves behind 2 nieces, 4 nephews, his beloved "Belton Crew" of extended family, and a host of dear friends.
A beloved husband, father, papa, and friend, David will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
