David Michael Ashburn

David Michael Ashburn

September 18, 1956 - July 17, 2026

David Michael Ashburn, age 69, passed away on Friday, July 17, 2026.

David was born on September 18, 1956, in Cookeville, Tennessee, to the late J.L. Ashburn Jr. and Charlene Ruth Ashburn (née Wilson). While he was always a proud Tennessee native, most of his formative years were spent in Indiana. It was at George Washington High School that he fully embraced the Hoosier mindset, excelling on the basketball court as a pivotal member of the Continentals.

After graduating high school, David went on to have a successful career as a boiler operator at Vertellus (formerly Riley Tar and Chemical). He took great pride in his work, retiring after 47 years with the company. He also had the good fortune of working 30 of those years alongside his best friend, Rick Williams.

It was on a blind date arranged by Rick in 2005 that David met the love of his life, Cindy Corbin. They have enjoyed the last 21 years in a devoted and loving partnership. Together, they were a constant fixture in the classic car community, traveling across the state to showcase David's immaculate 1936 Plymouth. He earned the admiration of fellow enthusiasts, taking home numerous awards from various Indiana car shows.

David was an active and supportive father to his three sons: Branden Ashburn of Indianapolis, Indiana; Michael Ashburn; and Bradley (Kerien) Ashburn of Speedway, Indiana. If he wasn't coaching their teams, he was their biggest fan cheering from the sidelines. He was also a caring mentor to Cindy's sons, Cody Corbin of Noblesville, Indiana and Travis Corbin of Greenwood, Indiana. He could always be counted on to share his wealth of knowledge and skill to help them troubleshoot any issue and fix any problem.

Most of all, David Ashburn's greatest title in life was Papaw! There was nothing he and Cindy cherished more than spending time with their grandkids: Zola, Bradley Jr., and Olin Ashburn, and Harrison and Madelyn Corbin. He was always playful and loving, never too tired to sing and dance or make silly voices.

David is survived by his loving partner, Cindy Corbin; his sons, Branden Ashburn and Bradley (Kerien) Ashburn; Cindy's sons Cody Corbin, and Travis Corbin; and beloved grandchildren, Zola Ashburn, Bradley Ashburn Jr., Olin Ashburn, Harrison Corbin and Madelyn Corbin. He was preceded in death by his son, Michael Ashburn. He leaves behind a lifetime of memories that will be treasured by his family and friends always.

A Celebration of Life will be planned at a later time.