Antique Restorer David A. Sheley Dies at 83

Sheley was known for his expertise in reverse glass painting and historic home restoration.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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David A. Sheley, a self-employed antique restorer and historic home preservationist, died on February 13, 2026 at the age of 83 at the Woltz Hospice home due to multiple organ failure. Sheley was born in Springfield, Ohio in 1942 and spent much of his life in rural Ohio and Virginia, where he was known for his expertise in the lost art of reverse glass painting and his work restoring two historic homes.

Why it matters

Sheley's passing marks the end of an era for a skilled artisan and preservationist who dedicated his life to honoring the craftsmanship and history of antiques and historic structures. His death highlights the ongoing challenge of maintaining traditional restoration techniques and the importance of passing down these specialized skills to future generations.

The details

Throughout his career, Sheley was self-employed as a restorer of antiques, with a particular focus on the intricate process of reverse glass painting. He also partially restored two historic houses in which he lived and helped save another in Ohio. Sheley was an active member of several local organizations dedicated to his passions for animals, antiques, and history.

  • David A. Sheley was born on March 24, 1942 in Springfield, Ohio.
  • Sheley served a term in the U.S. Army in Vietnam.
  • Sheley lived 30 years in rural Clark County, Ohio, and then 28 years in Patrick County, Virginia.
  • Sheley died on February 13, 2026 at the Woltz Hospice home.

The players

David A. Sheley

A self-employed antique restorer and historic home preservationist known for his expertise in reverse glass painting and restoration of two historic houses.

Harry and Alice Sheley

David Sheley's late parents, with whom he was raised in South Charleston, Ohio.

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The takeaway

Sheley's life and work exemplified the importance of preserving traditional craftsmanship and honoring the history embedded in antiques and historic structures. His passing serves as a reminder of the ongoing need to pass down these specialized skills to future generations in order to maintain the integrity of our shared cultural heritage.