David “Dave” Anthoney Roney, 80, of Ellijay, Georgia, passed away on Monday, July 20, 2026, surrounded by family.

Dave was born July 29, 1945, in Corbin, Kentucky, to Edwin Cecil Roney and Florence House Roney. Dave met his wife, Romelia Santillán Roney, while serving in the Airforce in Del Rio, Texas, in 1968. They married on May 5, 1969, and began their family. They moved from Texas to Indiana and eventually to Miami, Florida where they raised their five daughters. They moved from Florida to Georgia in 1997 where they have resided ever since. Dave was preceded in death by his parents, Edwin and Florence Roney.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Romelia Santillan Roney. His daughters include Leticia Roney Riviere (Joe Riviere), Gina Roney Lebolo, Dahlia Roney Christopher (Stephen “Randy” Christopher), Lydia Roney Marsicek (Gary Marsicek Jr), Jessica Roney Simpson (Jason Simpson). His cherished grandchildren, Nicolai Rogers, Taryn Fristedt, Jennifer Marsicek, Keefe Christopher, Marilyn Lebolo, Gary Marsicek III, Savannah Pinson, Daniel Lebolo, Kierstyn Roach, Jeremiah Lebolo. Finally, his great-grandchildren, Joe DiBenedetto, Ayla DiBenedetto, Dominic DiBenedetto, Frankie DiBenedetto, Amelia DiBenedetto, Serena Pinson, Olivia Marsicek, Melody Pinson and many who will treasure his memory. He is also survived by his two sisters, Maria Elaine Buck and Cynthia Diane Vander Ven.

Dave loved reading and writing about philosophy and theology, fishing, playing guitar, spending time in the woods, gardening and working on his koi pond. He masterfully created works of art, including stained-glass, watercolor paintings, poetry, and song writing. Dave was also a mentor to many Veterans and others. Dave will be remembered for his profound devotion to his Savior, Jesus Christ, his abiding love of family, his formidable intellect, keen wit and sense of humor, and the many lives he has touched. He leaves behind a rich legacy and a treasure trove of precious memories. 

A Celebration of Life will be held from 1:00pm until 4:00pm on Sunday August 30th, 2026 at the Cherry Log Community Center at 341 Cherry Log St. Cherry Log, GA 30522.

Inurnment will be held at the Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, GA at a later date. 

Logan Funeral Home & Chapel is in charge of arrangements.