David Alton Risinger

David was born in Bryan, TX on August 20, 1945 to Alton and Mamie Ruth “John” Risinger. In 1967, he graduated from Texas A&M University with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and then earned a master’s degree from the University of Oregon in 1968.

Upon completing his education, he served in the Army for two years including one year of active duty during the Vietnam War.

After his army service, David settled in Dallas, TX where he began a career in journalism, writing for the Baptist Standard newspaper. He then transitioned to Public Relations, working for religious outlets such as The Baptist National Convention and Dallas Baptist University.

He married Mary Elizabeth (Libby) Zabcik on June 17, 1977 at his beloved Wilshire Baptist Church in Dallas.

In 1978, David moved to Houston to further pursue his career in Public Relations, working in various industries including energy, retail, business services, and real estate. Most notably, he spent the last 10 years of his career as a proud employee of United Airlines cherishing his role to enhance the customer experience of “flying the friendly skies” before retiring in 2016.

Outside of his professional life, David was a faithful and long-time member of Houston’s First Baptist Church. There, he was able to express his devotion to helping others by serving as a deacon, a Stephen minister, and a teacher of youth missions. Also, he actively pursued his passion for music by lending his voice to the church choir, singing enthusiastically in Sunday morning services and performing in Christmas pageants.

Most of all, David found immense joy in attending family gatherings, spending time with friends, and traveling globally with his wife in later years.

In his passing, David is survived by his loving wife Libby Risinger and their daughter Melanie Risinger of Washington D.C.; his sister Pat Risinger of Bryan, TX; his daughter in law Cherie Risinger of Fulshear, TX and son in law Jose Dominguez of Washington DC; four grandchildren Colin Jr. (CJ) Risinger and Avery Risinger; Isabel Dominguez and Milo Dominguez; and numerous extended family members and cherished friends.

He was preceded in death by his son, Colin Risinger.

David will be laid to rest at Steep Hollow Cemetery in Bryan, TX. A celebration of his life will be held in the chapel of Houston’s First Baptist Church on January 6, 2025 at 11:00 AM.