MUNCIE - David A. Upchurch, Ph.D., 63, assistant professor at Ball State University, died March 9, 2011 after a long illness. He is survived by his wife, Mary Clark-Upchurch; sons, Seth (25) and Nicholas (21), and daughter, Sarah (22). David was born June 21, 1947, the son of Walter and Flossie Upchurch. He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother Gary. David received his doctorate in British Literature from Ball State University in 1989 and received his bachelor's degree from Depauw University in 1969. He was a 1965 graduate of Cadiz School, near New Castle, where he grew up. David taught in the Ball State University Department of English for nineteen years, where he was able to do what he loved best, work with students. In 1989 David published his book Wilde's Use of Irish Celtic Elements in The Picture of Dorian Gray, which evolved from his dissertation. Anna Priebe, Ph.D., a friend and colleague, said of David, "He was such a lovely, lovely man--I really enjoyed his humor, kindness, and wry smile." His son Nick said, "I loved my father. He was a brilliant man with a rapier wit, and a delightfully sarcastic sense of humor." Calling hours are 3:30-4:30 p.m. Monday, March 21, 2011 at Grace Episcopal Church, service following at 4:30 p.m. Arrangements are entrusted with Elm Ridge Funeral Home. Memorials should be given to Alzheimer's Association. Life's journey is not to arrive at the grave safely in a well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, totally worn out, shouting "Holy sh** - what a ride!"