David Todd Wilson, age 56, of Shelby, died Friday evening, August 21, 2026 in OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital. His death follows a brave four-month health battle after suffering a stroke
Born November 4, 1969, in Shelby to David and Loretta (Gearhart) Wilson, Todd was one of three siblings who made history as the first set of triplets born at Shelby Memorial Hospital. Being a triplet was a special part of Todd’s life and created a special bond from the very beginning of his life with his brothers, Terry and Troy. Todd was a 1988 graduate of Plymouth High School where he excelled as an athlete in basketball, baseball, and football. After graduation, Todd enlisted in the United States Army and proudly served his country as a communications specialist. During his years of service, Todd was stationed in Korea and later served in the Gulf War during Operation Desert Storm. His military service was an important chapter in his life and allowed him to form lifelong friendships with those he served with in the 101st Airborne Air Assault. After his military career Todd spent 19 years working at Carton Service before continuing his working career with ArcelorMittal, where he was currently employed.
Todd had an amazing ability to make those around him laugh. His smile was infectious, and his quick wit was always close at hand. He had a knack for finding just the right bit of humor in any situation, often responding in conversation with a perfectly timed line from a favorite movie or breaking into a quick dance move that was sure to make those around him laugh. Those who knew Todd could never be quite sure what he might say or do next, but they could usually count on it bringing a smile.
Todd enjoyed the simple things in life, a round of golf, a cold Miller Lite, playing cards, listening to his favorite ’80s music, or taking a walk with his dogs. A member of the Shelby Moose, he was also an avid sports fan. Todd faithfully cheered for the Dallas Cowboys and The Ohio State Buckeyes and of course any Shelby Whippet athletics team. His love of basketball went beyond being a player and a spectator. Over the years, Todd helped coach various teams, including Upward Basketball, Shelby Whippet Middle School Basketball, and his son’s travel basketball teams.
Todd was a true family man. On May 19, 1990 Todd married his high school sweetheart, Danya (Pritchard) Wilson and together they celebrated 36 years of marriage. His family was the center of his life, and he loved them fiercely and wholeheartedly. He looked forward to any time spent with his family and friends. Whether it was a holiday, a special gathering or simply being together, Todd treasured those moments and the memories they created as this was where he was truly happiest. Todd’s love was strong and genuine, and those closest to him always knew just how much they meant to him.
Todd is survived by his wife: Danya; his children: Jacoby (Courtney) Wilson of Mansfield and Emily (Eric) Hall of Lexington; his grandsons, who were the light of his world: Leo and Dean Hall; mother: Loretta Wilson of Shelby; his siblings: Kimberly (Rick) Collins of Shelby, Terry (Missy) Wilson of Mansfield, Troy (Char) Wilson of Shelby, and Denise (Paul) Lewis of Shelby; mother-in-law: Catherine Prichard of Sandusky; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his father: David Wilson, his sister: Kelly Anne (Wilson) Hockenberry, and his father-in-law: Charles Pritchard.
Family and friends are welcome on Thursday, August 27, 2026 from 1-3 and 5-7 pm at the Penwell Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby. Funeral services will be held on Friday, August 28, 2026 at 12 noon at Core Community Church, 18 Seneca Drive, Shelby, where Todd was a member. Pastor Ben Carver will officiate the services with military honors immediately following conducted by the Richland County Joint Veterans Burial Detail. Memorial contributions may be made to the Fanconi Cancer Foundation (https://fanconi.org/fundraising/).
Care for Todd and his family is being provided by the Penwell Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby. Condolences may be left on their website (PenwellFuneralHome.com) or Facebook.
I worked with Todd at arcelormittal before I retired and it was always a joy to spend time with him. He was always upbeat and good for a laugh regardless of the situation. My condolences to his family
So sorry to hear of Todd’s passing. I worked with Todd he always made me laugh!! I will be praying for your family!!