Bruce Douglas Switzer

Bruce Douglas Switzer, 80, of Crossett, passed away Friday, May 15, at his home in Crossett. He married his high school sweetheart, Norma Sue Johnson Switzer, on December 28, 1965, and spent over 60 years together creating a life filled with love, partnership, and cherished memories. They stayed in Crossett where they raised their children, Leslie, Laurie, and Shane, who became the center of their world.

Mr. Switzer served in the Army Reserves and was a graduate of the University of Arkansas, School of Law. He began practicing law in Crossett in 1968, joining his father at Switzer Law Office, the oldest law firm in Ashley County and the first private business allowed in town by the Crossett Company. He spent countless hours mentoring young lawyers and representing the citizens of Ashley County with his steady presence, wisdom, and “Bruce humor”. He was well respected and will be deeply missed by his clients, the law community, and anyone who was fortunate enough to know him.

Mr. Switzer loved the outdoors, sharing his love of hunting and fishing with his children and grandchildren. He cherished time spent at his camp, hunting, riding four-wheelers, hosting Bearhouse Family Christmas, or sitting on the back porch with his faithful companion, Bullseye, whom he called “a real dog”.

Mr. Switzer was a history buff who was proud of Ashley County and his family’s part in shaping it. He was a collector of memorabilia and pictures and loved to brighten someone’s day by sharing a bit of history, a random artifact, or pictures from his personal collection (usually something embarrassing). Whether putting a live crawfish in an Easter egg or devising the ultimate April Fool’s Day prank, he could bring laughter to any occasion with a little ingenuity and surprise. He will always be remembered for his quick wit and practical jokes.

Mr. Switzer leaves behind a legacy of love, loyalty, and quiet strength that will live on in his children and grandchildren, of whom he was most proud. 

Mr. Switzer was preceded in death by an infant son, Douglas Allen Switzer, and his parents, Ovid T. Switzer, Sr., and Marguerite Taylor Switzer, and two brothers, Roderick Switzer and Phil Switzer.

In addition to his beloved wife and children, he is survived by his cherished grandchildren: Cassidy Mansur, Reid Mansur, Connor Foote, and Porter Foote; a brother, Ovid T. Switzer, Jr.; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins; and the ever-present Bearhouse Crew. 

A Joint Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, May 23rd, at the First United Methodist Church, 500 Main St, in Crossett, with Rev. Matt Daniels, officiating.

Visitation will be from 1:00-2:00 p.m., in the church fellowship hall, prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to CARTI of El Dorado, or that you spend time with loved ones in the outdoors, honoring the simple joys he treasured most.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Bruce Douglas Switzer, please visit our floral store.