SSgt. Lawrence Ervin Switzer, Jr.

Staff Sergeant Lawrence Ervin Switzer Jr., USMC (Ret.), 72, passed away on July 14, 2026.

Lawrence was born in Memphis, Tennessee, on September 9, 1953, to Lawrence Ervin Switzer Sr. and Leda Mae Herring. Because of his father's career, the family moved frequently during his childhood, allowing Lawrence to experience many different places across the country. He spent his high school years in New England, graduating from Bristol High School in Rhode Island.

Following high school, Lawrence moved to Mississippi to pursue his education. He attended Mississippi Delta Community College in Moorhead, earning an Associate of Arts degree in Music Education while also studying Construction Technology. His passion for music then led him to Delta State University in Cleveland, Mississippi, where he continued his studies. It was during his time in Mississippi that Lawrence met Wina Ann Skeen.

In February 1979, Lawrence answered the call to serve his country and embarked on a highly distinguished career in the United States Marine Corps, ultimately achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant. Over more than fifteen years of honorable service, he excelled as an avionics and aviation maintenance management specialist and proudly served as a Marine Corps Recruiter. A decorated veteran of the Gulf War, his dedication to duty earned him five Marine Corps Good Conduct Medals, the Southwest Asia Service Medal with three bronze stars, the Kuwait Liberation Medal, and multiple Navy and Marine Corps Unit Commendations, Certificates of Commendation, and Meritorious Masts. He also took great pride in his marksmanship, earning both Rifle and Pistol Sharpshooter badges.

The same year he entered the service, he and Ann welcomed their first child. Together, they raised two children who became his pride and joy: a son, Lawrence Wayland Switzer (born in 1979), and a daughter, Rhonda Sue Switzer (born in 1981).

Lawrence took great pride in watching his family grow over the years. He was a proud grandfather to Hidee, Kendall, Rebecca, and Emily, and a doting great-grandfather to Alyss (daughter of Hidee) and Archer (son of Kendall). He carried his love for music and his fierce Marine Corps discipline throughout his life, but above all else, he cherished the time spent with his family and friends.

He is survived by his beloved children, son Lawrence Wayland Switzer and his wife Amber Dawn Switzer and daughter Rhonda Sue Switzer; his four grandchildren; and his two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence Sr. and Leda Mae.

A celebration of Lawrence's life with military honors will be held at 11:00 A.M. on August 22, 2026, at Calvary Chapel of Norman, located at 1401 W Boyd St, Norman, OK 73069.