Obituary of David M Switzer, Pulaski Co, AR *********************************************************** Submitted by: Carolyn Switzer Date: Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm *********************************************************** Here is the write-up about my husband's grandfather Dr. David Monroe Switzer, Sr. when he retired from teaching his Bible Class in 1950. It was written by members of his Sunday School class at Second Baptist Church, Little Rock, AR. Dr. Switzer died in 1954. He was married to Ada Gertrude Carpenter on 25 December 1901. Their three sons were: Drummond Switzer, Earl Switzer, and David Monroe Switzer, Jr. David Monroe Switzer, Sr. was the son of Frederick Amos Switzer and Julia Hammond Drummond of Ashley County, AR. "We now have with us a fellow member; one we not only know very well but one we admire very much; and, one we are proud to honor at this time. "What we have to say is not a biography but merely a summary of only a few of the noble characteristics, important events and service rendered which might be included in the record of the life of Dr. D. M. Switzer. "He was born in 1866 and has been fortunate enough to attain the age of four scores and four years or a total of 84 years, which have been well used. He prepared himself for life's important work as a physician and has faithfully and efficiently practiced this profession for about 42 years. During this long service, he has not only given medical aid to the sick and afflicted - but has contributed in many ways in offering kindly advice and suggestions which were very essential to the spiritual welfare and social needs of both individuals and groups. He has also officiated in an efficient manner the delivery of about 2500 babies; many of whom are now grown and have assumed the duties and responsibilities of the affairs of today. "The efficient administration of his professional duties relieved the suffers from their ills and misery; and, his gentle manner and disposition, together with his friendly smiles and greetings, dispelled the gloom and uncertainty from many sick rooms by refreshing the surrounding atmosphere with the fragrance of kindness and consideration which emanates only from a christian soul and mind. This same feeling is also very evident in all of his associations and contacts with his fellow man. "He has been happily married for about 48 years and has enjoyed the associations and binding ties with a kind and considerate family. He has been a devoted husband and father; faithful to his church; appreciative of his citizenship; loyal to his community and country and a law-abiding citizen. Although very modest in his disposition and unassuming in his efforts, he is firm in his convictions, standing firmly with faith and courage for fair dealings in all matters. "He has been a church member for about 68 years and a member of this church and Sunday School for about 27 years and is a loyal supporter for the cause of christianity. He has rendered invaluable service in many capacities and during these many years he has been absent from the the various activities only a few times; and, such absences were not due to carelessness or negligence on his part but were because of unavoidable circumstances. "That road of his - reaching over the 84 milestones - has not been strewn with roses all the way nor void of many treacherous hazards found along life's pathway. He found many rugged places to traverse between these milestones - but when he encountered such rough spots and obstructions - his faith in our Master and his unfaltering courage enable him to overcome many obstacles and handi-caps found along his journey. This determination to succeed and his unselfish service resulted in many worthwhile accomplishments for the welfare and destiny of humanity. "We can see him in our meditation - as a little boy in the far distance - toddling along with life's important load on his shoulders; stepping slowly but surely along the way; and in passing from one milestone to another - we can also see the fruits from his labors standing as beacon lights - sending forth their brilliance not only over the road just travelled - but also extending their rays over the untraversed pathway for himself and other so-journers to follow. We know, too, that during this period of time in climbing over these many milestones, he has advanced in favor with God and mankind. A close, friendly feeling is embedded in the hearts of all who have been fortunate to know him. "It is inspiring to us - to be associated with one whose life is so fruitful and clear whose record reveals and portrays - such outstanding examples of a worthwhile career - One who has lived that others my live - one who has given that others may receive - One who has proved to all - he knows upon WHOM we may safely trust and believe. "We congratulate you, Dr. Switzer. May our Master's richest blessings rest and abide with you and yours." --written by: CARROL D. WOOD BIBLE CLASS at Second Baptist Church Eighth and Scott Streets Little Rock, Arkansas April 30, 1950