A Message from Dean William B. Lawrence on the Death of Dr. David K. Switzer

David K. Switzer, Th.D., was Professor Emeritus of Pastoral Theology at Perkins School of Theology/Southern Methodist University. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, May 16, at Noel Memorial United Methodist Church, 520 Herndon Street, Shreveport, Louisiana.

Dr. Switzer was a member of the Perkins School of Theology faculty from 1967 until his retirement in 1993.  He served as associate dean for academic affairs and was assistant professor of pastoral theology during his tenure. Dr. Switzer earned his Th.D. degree from the Southern California School of Theology.

He is survived by his wife, the Rev. Dr. M. Theresa McConnell (M.Th.’79, D.Min.’81, Perkins; Senior Pastor, Lakeview United Methodist Church, Shreveport) and daughters Rev. Rachel McConnell-Switzer (M.Div.’13, Perkins; Associate Pastor, Henning Memorial United Methodist Church, Sulphur, Louisiana), and Rebecca Switzer of Albuquerque, N.M.  He was preceded in death by a son, David Eric Switzer.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests consideration of donations in Dr. Switzer’s memory to one of these organizations:

United Methodist Foundation of Louisiana
8337 Jefferson Hwy.
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
(For the education of United Methodist clergy with a focus in the field of pastoral care and counseling) 

Or to: 

The Suicide and Crisis Center
2808 Swiss Avenue
Dallas, TX 75204 

Messages of condolence may be sent to: 

Rev. Dr. Theresa McConnell
228 Dogwood Rd.
Shreveport, LA 71105-3110 

Ms. Rebecca Switzer
1016 Roma Ave NW
Albuquerque, NM 87102 

Rev. Rachel McConnell-Switzer
1404 Diane St.
Sulphur, LA 70663

Please join me in prayerful gratitude for the life and ministry of David K. Switzer.

Bill Lawrence