David Merling Remembered for Faithful Ministry

CORRALES, N.M. – “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith,” 2 Timothy 4:7.

Last fall, the Texico Conference mourned the loss of a beloved member of its conference family, David Merling, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and servant of God. Merling’s ministry, wisdom and gentle spirit touched countless lives across the churches where he served.

Merling began his ministry in the Texico Conference in 2007 and pastored for many years. Until his recent retirement, he served the Northwestern New Mexico district, which includes the churches in Gallup, Grants, Pie Town and Reserve. In earlier years, he also pastored at the Albuquerque Heights Seventh-day Adventist Church, as well as the Los Ranchos Seventh-day Adventist Church and the Corrales Seventh-day Adventist Church. 

Beyond his district responsibilities, Merling actively participated in evangelistic meetings and special events throughout the Texico Conference, often serving as a guest speaker and sharing with others his deep biblical insight and passion for teaching. Throughout his ministry, he was known for his calm presence, thoughtful preaching and genuine compassion for his church families.

Before joining the Texico Conference, Merling served in several other conferences, including the Illinois Conference, the Alabama-Mississippi Conference, the Georgia-Cumberland Conference and the Texas Conference. His ministry across these regions reflected his lifelong commitment to teaching truth, nurturing faith and leading others to a closer relationship with Christ.

In addition, Merling had a distinguished academic career as a professor of archaeology and history of antiquity at Andrews University, where he served for 21 years. He was the curator of the Horn Archaeological Museum and co-director of the Tell Jalul excavations in Jordan. His passion for biblical archaeology led him to teach and travel throughout the Middle East and beyond, inspiring many to see the Bible come alive through historical discovery.

Merling will always be remembered for his warmth, kindness and steadfast faith. He carried a quiet strength that made others feel at ease and was deeply devoted to both his family and his ministry. 

Many of you were members of the congregations he pastored, or have church members who were blessed by his ministry. Others had the privilege of serving alongside him as colleagues and friends. You know firsthand what a kind, wise and gracious person he was. Merling’s gentle spirit, compassion and genuine care for others touched many lives and will be remembered with deep affection.

He is survived by his loving wife of more than 50 years, Stephanie Merling; his sons, David Merling Jr. and Jeremy Merling; his daughters-in-law; four grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. His love for his family was unwavering, and he often spoke with gratitude for the blessings they brought into his life. 

Merling’s life reflected faith, scholarship and service, a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

May we honor his legacy by continuing to walk in faith, share Christ’s love and live with the same grace and devotion he so beautifully exemplified.