COLLEY, David

The White Mountain Independent, Show Low, Arizona ~ February 25, 2011 David Colley, 64, of Overgaard died Tuesday, Feb.15, 2011, in his home with his loving family at his side. David was born in Sheffield, England in 1946. He completed 2 1/2 years of culinary schooling in Sheffield; going on to an apprentice program, where he was indentured to the Grand Hotel for five years. He worked 52 hours a week while attending Ealing University, where he graduated in 1966. David met Jennifer Ann Barnes in England while she was visiting her grandmother in 1964. He proposed before she returned home and a long distance love affair began. After graduating in 1966, he wrote to several American restaurateurs and secured a position with Bill Helsing at Neptune's Table. He then immigrated to the United States and he and Jenny were married one week later. Their fairy tale marriage lasted 44 years. During his life David was very successful as a Chef with many establishments within the Phoenix Metro area and also became a U.S. Citizen. In 2004 David retired and they moved to Overgaard to be closer to their children and grandchildren. David was a good and faithful servant to his Lord and Savior. He loved his family, his life and above all the Lord. David is survived by his wife, Jennifer Barnes Colley; son James Lee Colley (Donna); daughter Tracy Ann Colley Baker (Douglas); six grandchildren; sister-in-law Deborah Barnes Johnson (Dennis); nephew Christopher Lee Johnson (Stephanie); niece Tammy Denise Johnson Shust (Jonathan); and two grand nephews. A memorial service will be held at p.m. Saturday, Feb. 26, at the First Southern Baptist Church of Overgaard. Arrangements were under the direction of Black's Mortuary of Show Low. Sign an online guest book or offer private condolences at www.blacksmortuary.com