David Howell Wilbanks, 78, of St. Petersburg, Florida, passed away Friday, February 13, 2026. 

 

David was born September 22, 1947, in Jacksonville, Florida, to Betty Howell Wilbanks and Oliver Cleveland Wilbanks. The eldest of three boys, he was raised with a deep faith in Christ, an appreciation for music, and a love of sports that stayed with him throughout his life.  

 

A proud graduate of North Fulton High School (Class of 1965), David earned his undergraduate degree from Mercer University in 1969 where he met and eventually married his college sweetheart, Judith “Judy” Ann Force on August 29, 1970. David attended LSU Banking School and began his banking career, serving in roles with C&S, Landmark, and SunTrust. At SunTrust, he spent five years as Regional President before making a meaningful career change in 1992 to become a Life Insurance Advisor with Northwestern Mutual. Over 28 years with Northwestern Mutual, David served as Managing Director for 10 of those years and retired in 2020, leaving a legacy of integrity, mentorship, and care for those he served. 

 

David was a devoted family man, raising three daughters with Judy. He treasured every moment spent with them and his grandchildren. He was a devout Christ follower and a faithful member of First Baptist Church of St. Petersburg for nearly 50 years, living out his values through service, leadership, and generosity. A dedicated civic leader, he supported and served organizations including Junior Achievement, the Chamber of Commerce, the YMCA, Rotary Club, and United Way. 

 

David was preceded in death by his beloved first wife, Judy Wilbanks, with whom he shared 34 years of marriage; she passed away December 20, 2003. In the years that followed, he was blessed to find love again and share life with Kelly Ahles. They were married November 3, 2013, in St. Petersburg, growing his family in love and number. Together they created many happy memories, and she remained a steady, loving presence by his side. 

 

David is lovingly remembered by his wife, Kelly Wilbanks; his children, Lori Wilbanks, Lisa Melgarejo (Pablo), and Leslie Waechter (Brian); his bonus children, Ashley Hink (Chris), Lindsey Francis (Eric), and Courtney King (Jeremy); his grandchildren, Kennedy Waechter (18), Jackson Melgarejo (17), Ava Melgarejo (15), Blake Waechter (14), and Noah Melgarejo (12); his bonus grandchildren, Tristin King (16), Zoe King (14), Carrie Hink (10), Carter Hink (7), and Oliver Francis (6); and his siblings, Mark Wilbanks (Kim) and John Wilbanks (Janet), and their families. 

 

A memorial service will be held Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church of St. Petersburg, with a reception to follow. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to First Baptist Church of St. Petersburg, the United Way or Junior Achievement of Tampa Bay. 

“Be still and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:10