ELLIS COUNTY - I did not know this man named David Bittle.
Initially I was not going to write about his death. After I read all the comments and the love pouring out regarding his passing there was no way I was not going to write about his death.
As has been the case a few times over the past few years as I was doing my research on various people who are no longer with us my soul was saying “Boy do I wish I had known him, what a positive person he was and a beautiful soul.”
That can be said about how I feel writing this about David Bittle.
I won’t go into the many Ellis County social media posts regarding the impact this gentleman made in Ellis County, but I will say the Waxahachie Pol i c e De partment’s announcement of his passing tells the short story of an obviously wonderful man.
The Waxahachie Police De p a r tme n t announcement read: It is with profound sadness and heartfelt gratitude that the Waxahachie Police Department announces the passing of Public Service Officer David Bittle, beloved member of our community and a man who dedicated his life to serving others.
David’s passing marks not only the loss of a devoted public servant but also of a cherished friend, family member, and neighbor whose impact will long be felt by all who knew him.
His legacy of service spans more than 20 years as a peace officer with six area agencies, including the Waxahachie Police Department.
His journey began as a volunteer firefighter and an industrial firefighter defense contractor before he attended the police academy.
David joined the Waxahachie Police Department in 1994, where he quickly rose through the ranks to sergeant by 1997.
In 2000, he traveled overseas for police training, but his heart eventually brought him back to the Waxahachie community he called home.
David retired from the Waxahachie Police Department in January 2019, yet his servant’s heart never rested.
In February 2024, David returned to serve Waxahachie again as a Public Service Officer, a role he fulfilled with the same passion and dedication that defined his life.
That same year, he was honored with the Civilian of the Year Award, a testament to his unwavering commitment to helping others.
David had previously earned the distinguished Police Officer of the Year Award during his time in a sworn capacity.
Beyond his career in public service, David found joy and fulfillment in his love of cooking.
After his first retirement, he pursued his passion by graduating from the Culinary School of Fort Worth with honors, underscoring his remarkable dedication to learning and excellence.
His culinary talents brought joy to many, but his genuine care for others truly set him apart.
David often credited his servant’s heart to the inspiration he drew from his mother, a trait that guided him in every aspect of his life.
Waxahachie Police Chief Joe Wiser said, “David’s faith played a central role in his life, and it gives us comfort to know he is now at peace with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
“ As we mourn his passing, we find solace in the profound legacy he leaves behind; a life defined by service, compassion, and love for his community.
“To David, we say: Rest peacefully, brother. We have the watch from here.”
While I am not including the many social media comments about Bittle, I will note Waxahachie Mayor Billie Wallace who also worked in law enforcement in Waxahachie with Bittle said on her Facebook post, “Today is tough for law enforcement in Ellis County. Gosh, David Bittle, where do I start.
“We all grew up together, learned from each other, and always had each other’s backs.
“You always treated people with respect and compassion while serving the community and gained so many friendships along the way. You will be truly missed.”
From what I can tell, her sentiment echoes that of many, many in the community who crossed his path.
Details regarding services to celebrate Bittle’s life will be shared as they become available.