David Ray Acrey

David Ray Acrey, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother, peacefully passed away on Monday, February 16th, 2026, at the age of 74 at his residence. He was born on Wednesday, August 8th, 1951, in New Castle, Indiana.

David was a welder at Dayton Walther. Beyond his work, his passions included riding horses and spending quality time with his family, especially his cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 39 years, Judy Acrey, who shared with him a life rich in love and companionship. David leaves behind a loving family, including his four children: Davey Acrey (Laura) of Bowling Green, KY, Dana Griffis (David) of Bowling Green, KY, Bobby Kent (Tracy) of Franklin, KY, and Jennifer Brock (Kevin) of Bowling Green, KY.

His remarkable legacy continues through his 14 grandchildren: Davis, Maecy, Jonas, Josiah, Joseph, Ruthie, McKenna, Cooper, Kaylyn (Jacob), Eli, Kelci, Lexie, Jordan, and Taylor, and three great-grandchildren: Hadley, Oakley, and Rayleigh. Additionally, David is fondly remembered by his siblings: Joyce Hicks (Leland) of Albany, KY, Judy Ledbetter (Kenny) of Monticello, KY, Chuck Acrey (Rita) of Monticello, KY, and Patsy Gregory of Lexington. He also held a special place in his heart for his bonus children, Joe Grace and Mary Grace, and several nieces and nephews.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert Walker Acrey and Mary Helen (Guffey) Acrey, and his brother, Herbert Keith Acrey.

The family welcomes visits to honor David's memory at Gilbert Funeral Home in Franklin, KY. Visitation will be held on Saturday, February 21st, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm, and on Sunday, February 22nd, 2026, from 6:00 am until 2:00 pm. The funeral service will be held on Sunday, February 22, 2026 at 2:00 pm with interment to follow in Greenlawn Cemetery in Franklin, KY.

Pallbearers for the service will include John Mark Starks, Jordan Dyer, Eli Kent, Davis Acrey, Joe Grace, and Jonas Griffis. Honorary pallbearers include Kevin Brock, David Acrey, and Bobby Kent.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to The Rosie Foundation, P.O. Box 301, Franklin, KY 42135-0301.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Gilbert Funeral Home & Crematory. For further information, please visit their website at www.gilbertfhonline.com, their Facebook page at Gilbert Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc., or contact the obituary phone line at 270-586-8844.

David Acrey will be greatly missed and forever remembered for his enduring love, and the profound impact he had on all who knew him.