My first class at the University of Alabama in the autumn of 1964 was "Western Civilization II" taught by Dr. David McElroy.  It met at 8:00 AM and students were expected to be in their seats.  The only excuse for leaving during the lecture was "excruciating physical pain."  After explaining classroom policies and office hours, he began the first lecture, "Our discussion begins with the fall of the Roman Empire."  Subsequent lectures began with, "Continuing our discussion..."  There was NO discussion.  David spewed out information in an orderly manner.  I took notes, read the assignments BEFORE class and again after.  I made "A's" in Western Civ II and every other history course I took as an undergraduate with David.  While studying for my MA, David and I became friends.  I took a summer school course in "History of the Third Reich" from him.  David threw a party after the final.  I had received a post card with my grade...a "B++."  At the party I asked, "David, what's the difference in a 'B+++" and an 'A--'?"  David smiled, "Three quality points."  I later earned a PhD in history and ended my working days as a history college professor in Pennsylvania.  David and his wife Janet became life-long friends.   He was a demanding teacher and close friend.  His teaching style, sly wit, and dedication to pedagogy influenced me greatly.   David, your students are "continuing our discussion."   Rest in peace.  We'll catch up soon.

I was a history undergraduate at the University of Alabama in the early 1970s and David was my mentor and advisor. I studied modern Europe and Germany under his watchful eye and later he supported  me with letters of recommendation and referrals to other scholars during my years of graduate study in history. I was not a particularly strong undergraduate student, and I doubt that many gave me much chance of success, but David encouraged me, and eventually I think I surprised many with the success I had at the graduate level. I might never have had that opportunity were it not for David and a few others like him who lifted me up. Although I left academics for a business career soon after graduate school, I have never forgotten about David.  I was disappointed that he had moved to Mobile after I retired and moved back to Tuscaloosa several years ago. I had hoped to visit him, but missed that opportunity. I hope I have done for a few others what David did for me.  Hall of Fame teacher in my book.

We were fortunate to move into our home next door to David and Janet in 1994. They quickly became our extended family.  David and Evans spent many afternoons on the patio with a cocktail discussing current events. 
Janet and David were surrogate grandparents to our children. Merrill remembers playing paper dolls and Faulcon always wanted to make more lemonade. We had a wonderful time and will forever be grateful for their love and friendship.  




In September 1964, I started my freshman year with Dr. David McElroy's class in Western Civilizations.  I took several of his courses in modern European History.  He inspired me to study history, to earn a doctorate and become a professor.  He began every lecture with, "Continuing our discussion..." Well David, the discussion continues with our students.  You did what great teachers do, you touched the future.  Thank you.  Earl H. Tilford, PhD, George Washington University, retired faculty Grove City College, Grove City, Pennsylvania.


OBITUARY

David Brian McElroy

December 19, 1926 – February 4, 2020

Radney Funeral Home - Mobile

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