MOUNT VERNON – David Poland Barnhill went to sleep in Jesus on his 94th birthday, May 31, 2023, at the Country Club Retirement Center in Mount Vernon. 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 Harvard University with his Master of Business Administration degree. After college, he joined the Air Force as 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 U.S. 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 accomplished 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 10-11 a.m. on Monday, June 5, at Wappner Funeral Directors-Mansfield, 98 S. Diamond St., Mansfield, OH 44902. A service will follow beginning at 11 a.m. and will be conducted by David’s nephew, David Searcy. David’s brother, the Rev. Charles Barnhill, will lead a graveside service in Little Washington Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Knox County, 17700 Coshocton Ave., Mount Vernon, OH 43050.
Words of condolence may be expressed at wappner.com.
