Liner Ray Switzer

Liner “Ray” Switzer, 69, of Pauline, SC, went to be with his Lord and beloved bride on Tuesday, December 19, 2023.  He was the first-born son of Eugenia Gregory and the late Liner Amos Switzer.

Ray was born May 19, 1954 in Spartanburg, SC, and raised in Pauline, SC.  He graduated from Dorman High School in 1972.

Ray was a beloved husband, son, father, brother, Granddaddy, and friend.  He married Lisa Barbee Switzer, of Oakboro, NC on December 20, 1975.  They celebrated their anniversary this year together in Heaven.  Together, throughout 48 years of marriage, they built a wonderful life and legacy for their family.  His legacy will remain one of faith, family, and friendship for future generations. 

Left to cherish his memories are daughter, Jennifer Switzer Knight and her husband Michael; and son, Matthew Ryan Switzer and his wife Taylor.  His greatest treasure was being Granddaddy to Jackson, Michaelyn, Peyton, Marly, and Harper.  He is also survived by his mother, Eugenia Gregory Switzer; and brother Doyle Switzer and his wife Joann.  He was predeceased by his wife, Lisa Barbee Switzer, his father, Liner Switzer, his brother, Wayne Switzer, and an infant sister, Mary Switzer.  He is also survived by many extended Switzer and Barbee family members and friends.

Ray retired as Vice President of Business Affairs from Spartanburg Community College in July of 2022 after more than 17 years of service.  Throughout his life, Ray made many friends through church, community, career, and Christian service, while also sustaining many childhood and school friendships.  He found joy in so many facets of life.  He enjoyed being outdoors whether it be hunting, fishing, or doing yard work. He delighted in time spent amongst family.  He also humbly served the community through North Spartanburg Rotary Club; having served for 10 years as a Rotarian; one of which as president.  Ray personified the definition of the Rotary motto, “Service above Self.”  He was a current member of Southside Baptist Church in Spartanburg, SC and a former longtime member of Philadelphia Baptist Church in Pauline, SC.  Among other things, he taught Sunday School, served as a Deacon, and sang bass in the church choirs.  He used his beautiful voice to praise the Lord at every opportunity and would tell anyone he met how good the Lord had been to him and his family.  He truly lived his life in the goodness of God. He was a blessing to so many through his Christian love and service.

A private burial will be held at Philadelphia Baptist Church Cemetery, and a Celebration of Life service for Ray and Lisa will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Southside Baptist Church, 316 S. Church Street, Spartanburg, SC 29306 or to North Spartanburg Rotary Club, PO Box 3423, Spartanburg, SC 29304.

Floyd's North Church Street

“I have fought the good fight.  I have finished the race.  I have kept the faith.  Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day–and not only to me, but to all who have longed for his appearing.”                  2 Timothy 4:7-8

“Who is wise and understanding among you?  Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.”                               James 3:13

“He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord.”                        Acts 11:24

“A good man obtains favor from the Lord.  But who can find a faithful man?  The righteous man walks in his own integrity.  His children are blessed after him.”                Proverbs 12:2 & 20:6-7