A Celebration of Life is scheduled at 11 am to 1 pm on Thursday, October 8 at Terpening & Son Mortuary for David Ancell of Artesia, NM. A visitation will be held on Wednesday from 4 - 6 pm at Terpening & Son Mortuary.

David "Big Dave" Ancell was born on September 17, 1955, in Seminole, Texas, to Berl and Addie Ruth Ancell. He passed away on October 2, 2026.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Berl and Addie Ruth Ancell; his sister, Judy Fletcher; his nephews, Dru Sanders, Grant Langford, and Tate Fletcher; and his brothers-in-law, Jimmy Sanders and Archie Langford.

He is survived by Lynn and Eugene Shirley, Gynn Langford, Bert and Debbie Ancell, Jo Rich, and Monti Sanders; as well as his nieces and nephews, Randi Christian and husband Chris, Keri Douglas, Jess Shirley and wife Rachelle, D'Lee Fletcher, Button Ancell and wife Renee, Denim Clark, Makinzie Sanders and husband Kyle, Bonnie Sanders, and numerous great-nieces and great-nephews.

David worked in the oilfield supply industry for 50 years, where he built many friendships and left a lasting impression on those who knew him.

David loved to dance, enjoyed hunting, bowling, sporting clays, and team roping, and was known for picking on the people he loved. Behind his teasing was a heart full of love for his family and friends. He had a way of making people laugh and making memories that will be treasured forever.

He will be deeply missed by so many who loved him.