Pastor's Blog

E.B. ‘Bernie’ Switzer ROCK HILL –

The world lost a great man Monday, September 15, 2014. E. B. “Bernie” Switzer (also known as Nard on the Gulf Coast) left the surely bonds of Earth into the hands of God after 84 years, nine months and four days. His mother came down to usher him home one last time. What a reunion it must be with him and his parents, brother, sister, brothers-in-law, grandparents, aunts and uncles! I can hear Granddaddy playing the piano and singing his favorite hymns, “Supper Time” and “Old Rugged Cross”! Family was so very important to Daddy. He was the happiest when the whole family was together, enjoying each other’s company. Friends were cherished by him, too. In fact, he considered friends part of the family. It made his day when friends came to the lake house to visit, especially after his stroke. He hated to see them leave. He was born December 11, 1929, in Kreole, Miss. to Elmer E. and Lucy Seaman Switzer. He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Melva S. Huff; a brother, Dean Switzer and son, Douglas Switzer. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Bert; daughter, Vickie S. Bryant (Jerry); son, David Switzer (Allyson); six grandchildren, Heidi Jaremko, Tonya Petersen, Kyle Bryant, Christopher Switzer (Meghan), Lauren Switzer and Justin Switzer (Amanda); nine great-grandchildren and extended family and close friends. The family would like to give special thanks to his caregivers, Tay and Cleo. He spent his working years in the paper industry, having moved with his young family to Rock Hill in May of 1959 at the opening of Bowater. In his spare time he enjoyed beekeeping, gardening and woodworking. In later years he kept active and made many new friends by participating in activities at the YMCA. He was a great husband, father, grandfather, friend, and boss. He loved everyone and was loved by all who knew him. As we all grieve his passing and feel the intense pain of loss, we find solace in knowing that all his pain, discomfort, and frustration he has endured is over and he is at peace. But yes, the loss is a searing pain. Dad, we all love you more than words can say! Funeral services for Mr. Switzer will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, September 18, 2014, at Bass-Cauthen Funeral Home in Rock Hill. The service will be officiated by Jeff Switzer, his nephew. Visitation will be at 1 p.m. Interment will be at Grandview Memorial Park immediately following the service.