The Rev. K. David Bixler, affectionately known by many as Pastor Bixler, 73, of Linden, departed this earth suddenly on Monday, January 27, 2025. He entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and was greeted into heaven by loved ones.
Born April 13, 1951, in Pikeville, TN, he was a son of the late Rev. Dr. E. W. Bixler and Velma J. (Stephenson) Bixler. Growing up in a loving family who was devoted to serving God, David knew it was his calling to follow in their footsteps. At the young age of 9, David accepted Christ into his heart. He graduated from Lake Central High School in Saint John, IN, and attended the Tennessee Temple University, receiving a bachelor’s degree in Biblical Studies.
He married Debra M. (Ulmer) Bixler on June 21, 1975, whom he loved unconditionally, worked alongside of, and spent every possible moment with. David was blessed to know the joys of becoming a husband and a father, and later in life, a grandfather, and cherished every moment spent with his family.
David spent over 50 years at Emmanuel Baptist Church in Williamsport. In February of 1991, he humbly accepted the role of Senior Pastor of Emmanuel Baptist Church, where he served diligently for 34 years, participating in many activities from the bus ministry to being a youth director. He was not only a pastor, but a mentor to many in his community. He was the principal and administrator at the Williamsport Christian School, where he coached basketball for over 25 years. He received two Honorary Doctorate Degrees from Northeast Baptist School of Theology in Downingtown and from Calvary Baptist Bible College and Seminary, King, NC. He loved hunting on his property in Linden, watching the Pittsburgh Pirates baseball and playing softball.
Surviving are his loving wife of 49 years, Debra M. (Ulmer) Bixler; five children, Rev. Joel D. Bixler (Stephanie) of Lenoir, NC, Rev. Jonathan D. Bixler (Tanya) of Mt. Joy, Rev. James D. Bixler (Heidi) of Williamsport, Sheila M. Snode (Rev. Nathan) of Cranberry Twp., and Sonya M. Dallas (Rev. Tommy) of Brownsville. He also leaves behind fourteen grandchildren, Melanie, Allissa, Andrew, Ryan, Kirsten, Katelyn, Morgan, Reagyn, Gracyn, Addison, Jackson, Blake, Ethan, and Connor; three brothers, Randy E. Bixler of Madison Heights, VA, Rev. Ronald A. Bixler (Lisa M.) of Montgomery, Mark D. Bixler (Lisa A.) of Colchester, VT and a sister, M. Ruth Scoggins (Rev. Ken) of Lenoir City, TN.
A viewing will be held 4 p.m. – 7p.m. Thursday, January 30, 2025, at Emmanuel Baptist Church, 1730 Four Mile Dr., Williamsport, and from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 31 at church, followed by a funeral service to honor The Rev. K. David Bixler at 12 p.m. Burial will follow at State Road Cemetery, Cogan Station.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Emmanuel Baptist Church, 1730 Four Mile Dr., Williamsport, PA 17701.
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. Ephesians 2 8:9 KJV
Arrangements entrusted to Sanders Mortuary.
Online condolences may be expressed on David’s memorial page at http://www.SandersMortuary.com
