Obituary of David H. Shipley

David H. Shipley, 73 of Benld, IL passed away Friday morning, May 2, 2025 at Anderson Hospital in Maryville, IL after a fall in his home. David was born January 14th, 1952 in Carlinville, the son and second child of Harold A. “Shorty” and Kathleen “Kay” (Best) Shipley. David attended Carlinville schools, graduating in 1970. He was active in the music and art departments, playing piano for many music productions and singing with the chorus. After high school graduation, David attended Lincoln Christian College where he participated with the men’s chorus group “The Master's Men" and also the Chorala choir. After two years in college, David worked for the Illinois State Police and for Illinois Bell Systems. While in Springfield, David participated in musical theatre at the Springfield Muni Opera, notably playing the lead role in the production of the musical “Pippin” and playing a character known as “The Leading Player.” David transferred to and moved to Houston Texas, working in the Bell Telephone offices and finally retiring from Southwestern Bell Systems as a telephone lineman. After retirement, David moved back to Springfield, IL and then eventually to Benld, Illinois. David is survived by his partner, David Murray of Benld, IL, a brother, Aaron (Johnnette) Shipley of Carlinville, nieces; Angie Whitehead-(John) Kern of Washington, IL, and Sandra (Shawne Copeland) Shipley of Gillespie, IL, nephews; Joe (Lori Wells) Whitehead of Princeville, IL, Jim Whitehead of Pekin, IL, Austin (Clair Lutz) Shipley and William (Emily) Shipley, both of Carlinville and several great-nieces and great-nephews. Preceding him in death are his parents, a sister Kathryn “Kathy” Whitehead and brother-in-law Gary Whitehead, both formerly of East Peoria, IL. A public graveside service will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2025 at 10:30 am, at Oak Hill Cemetery in Palmyra, IL with Arthur Roemer officiating. Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice. Please visit www.davisandersonfuneralhome.com to leave condolences or light a candle in his memory. Davis-Anderson Funeral Home in Carlinville is handling the arrangements.