David Poland Barnhill went to sleep in Jesus on his 94th birthday, May 31, 2023, at the Country Club Retirement Center in Mount Vernon, Ohio. He was born in Shelby, Ohio and was the son of Gladys (Poland) and Clifton Barnhill.
David graduated with honors from Ohio Wesleyan University in Delaware, Ohio and from Harvard University with his Master of Business Administration degree. After college, he joined the United States Air Force where he was 1st Lieutenant for Air Force Materiel Command. After completing his tour of duty, David worked as a financial consultant for a number of corporations in the United States and Europe. After retirement, he and his wife, Constantina “Coly”, bought a villa on the Riviera in France, with frontage on the Mediterranean Sea.
When visiting his U.S. home in Fredericktown, Ohio he became disabled due to a fall. This led to his need for long term care and the decision to sell his villa in France which he was able to accomplish through the help of his brothers and sister. He then lived at the Retirement Center until his death. David had previously attended Owl Creek Church of the Brethren.
David is survived by his sister, Carol (Bill) Miller; and three brothers, Vernon (Joann) Barnhill, John Barnhill and Charles Barnhill. He was preceded in death by his wife, Constantina “Coly” Barnhill; and sister, June Wilson. Though he and Coly had no children, they had an abundance of friends and associates. Coly was an architect, sculptor and artist. He and Coly loved animals, especially their St. Bernard and Samoyed dogs.
The family will receive friends from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. on Monday, June 5, 2023 at Wappner Funeral Directors – Mansfield, 98 S. Diamond St., Mansfield, Ohio 44902. A service will follow beginning at 11:00 a.m. and conducted by David’s nephew, David Searcy. A graveside service held in Little Washington Cemetery will be led by David’s brother, Rev. Charles Barnhill. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Knox County, 17700 Coshocton Ave., Mount Vernon, Ohio 43050.
