Dorothy Francis Switzer

Dorothy Francis Switzer died on Sunday October 14, 2007, at the age of 98 years. She was born in Jacksonville, Texas in October, 1909 to Marguerite Little Francis and Royal Francis. She graduated from Beaumont high school and attended college at Lon Morris College in Jacksonville, and also at Lamar College in Beaumont. In September, 1929, she was married to Richard E. Switzer, who preceded her in death in 1984 after 55 years of marriage. Dorothy was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, and loved by all. She moved to Austin from Midland in 1985 with her daughter and son-in-law and began an active social life. She belonged to the Thankful Hubbard chapter of the DAR, the Cereus Garden Club, and the Austin Women's Club. Dorothy is survived by her daughter, Jane Switzer Parker, and husband Howard W. Parker. Also by her grandchildren, H. Winn Parker, Jr. and wife Sandra Parker, Dr. Richard S. Parker and his partner Chuck Jones, and by Francie Parker Little and husband Gary P. Little. Her great grandchildren also mourn her passing, and they are: Kate Parker Woodham and husband Dr. Ryan Woodham, Abigail Parker, H. Watson Parker, Parker Little, Ellie Little, and Alex and Elvis Parker-Jones. The family is extremely grateful to the health care staff at The Summit at Westlake Hills for the wonderful care given Dorothy in her late years, and a special thanks to Rhonda Schneider, her faithful and loving companion. A graveside service will held in the Masonic Garden of Resthaven Memorial Park in Midland, Texas at 11:00 a.m. on Friday October l9th where she will be buried next to her husband, Dick. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Settlement Home for Children in Austin, Hospice Austin, or your favorite charity.