David Hale Swisher November 14, 1930 – August 26, 2024 David Hale Swisher passed away on Monday, August 26, 2024. He was born in Laredo, Texas on November 14, 1930, to parents, Jesse and Ross Swisher. David spent his childhood and formative years in Laredo, enjoying the freedom and beauty that South Texas offers.
It was there that he developed his love of the outdoors, fishing and hunting. He also spent time in the John Deere family business. He excelled at football and track, which earned him a scholarship to Tarleton to play football.
After a semester at Tarleton, David joined the Navy to serve his country during the Korean conflict. Upon finishing his four years of service, he enrolled as a student at Southwest Texas State due to the encouragement of his former high school coach. There, he met his wife, Jackie, and they continued as married students while earning his bachelors and masters in chemistry.
He was later honored as a distinguished alumni. In June 1960 David was offered a job with Dow Chemical in the research department beginning his successful 34 year career. David had the opportunity to work in several areas, contributing to the company’s growth and retired as a major manager for the maintenance department.
David was a man of faith and integrity known for his firm handshake and welcoming smile. He was an active member of First United Methodist Church, Lake Jackson, where he served as Administrative Board Chairman and Sunday School Teacher. His love of church and community showed through his involvement as a BISD School Board Member, Texas Gulf Bank Trustee, Habitat for Humanity volunteer, Board Member of the Fine Arts Center, American Cancer Society Chairperson, local United Way Chairman, Chairman of the Salvation Army site Christmas bell ringers, Dow Chemical United Way fund drive chairman and as coach of his girls’ softball teams.
His time with family was cherished and he enjoyed passing on his experiences and knowledge. His motto was “realize what you are good at..
.flywheel off those strengths..
.while working to improve your weaknesses. Learn from your setbacks.
Set goals. Achieve them one day at a time.” David is survived by his wife of 69 years, Jackie; daughters, Jana Lynn Edwards (Philip), children Jackson (Jessica), and Jordon (Lindy); Davey Ann Harper (Eric), children Austin (Allyson), Logan (Joseph), and Chloe (Gabriel); Amanda Kay Trevino (Rene), children Ella and Gavin; and his great-grandchildren, Ava, Swayze, Shepard Harper, and Jenson Edwards; in-laws; nieces; nephews; and countless special friends.
In lieu of memorials, please consider the gift of life, a donation of blood, which has sustained David for many cherished years. Services will be held Saturday, August 31, 2024, at First United Methodist Church, Lake Jackson. The Service will be at 2:00 p.
m. in the Sanctuary with a reception to follow..
