On 9 July 1915, Moora’s Midlands Advertiser published the following tribute to David Ashby:
On Wednesday afternoon last, the Rev. F. W. Gunning received a message to the effect that Private Dave Ashby died of wounds on June 30th. Needless to say, sincere regret was felt by all who knew him, David Ashby was born at Sittingbourne, Kent. England, on August 28, 1892. Prior to his departure from England he served in the Territorials of his native town, and from his earliest years always desired the life of a soldier. Seven years ago he came to Moora, and here he has followed various callings. The deceased, who was well respected, was a prominent member of the local British Association and the Moora Football Clubs. The sympathy of all in the district is extended to his parents and relatives, who reside in Moora. On Sunday evening next a memorial service will be conducted at the Anglican Church, Moora, by the Rev. F. W. Gunning.
In May 1914 David Ashby was appointed to the committee of Moora British Association Football Club and played with his brother Albert for the club until his enlistment. On 2 May 1915 Private Ashby received a gunshot wound to the back and spine at Gallipoli which necessitated his transfer to a Cairo hospital. He succumbed to his injuries two months later at the age of 23. His brother Albert enlisted in 1916 and survived the war.