Obituary of Mary Patricia Swafford
Mary Patricia Mahoney was born on June 16, 1943, in Benson, Minnesota. She was one of three children born from the union of Gordon and Mary (McGeary) Mahoney. Mary married the love of her life: Wallace Swafford on April 29, 1961, at St. Alphonsus Church in Dearborn, Michigan. The happy couple was blessed with the birth of three children.
Mary dedicated her life in service to others. For many years she was employed as a nurse's and activities aide at the former Beach Nursing Home and Lutheran Home. Her energy and enthusiasm extended beyond her job duties as she led a variety of activities, creating an engaging and supportive environment for the residents. She retired in 1997.
Outside of work, Mary's home was a testament to her love for creativity and family. She was an avid quilter and crocheter, spending countless hours making Afghans that adorned her home. On special occasions many friends and family members were lucky recipients of her beautiful creations.
Mary's sewing skills were equally remarkable. She delighted in making clothes for stuffed animals. One of her proudest achievements was creating a stunning prom dress for her granddaughter, Casie, and elegant junior prom and bridesmaid dresses for her daughter, Cindy. Each stitch she sewed was woven with love.
Gardening was another of Mary's joys. Her backyard was a lush tapestry of vibrant flowers and thriving vegetable plants. Each spring and summer, she tended to her garden with dedication, and every fall, she canned the vegetables, a tradition that kept her family well-stocked through the winter.
In the kitchen, Mary was a culinary wizard. Her ability to cook any dish was admired by all who tasted her food, yet it was her fried chicken that family and friends craved above all else. Mary truly enjoyed the joyful chaos of family gatherings at her home during every holiday. When the clock struck 4:00am, Mary and her family would start prepping for the festivities. Each family member had their role, from arranging decorations to preparing sumptuous meals, and Mary's home transformed into a haven of warmth and togetherness.
Mary Patricia Swafford, age 81, of Newport, passed away at her home under the care of Elara Caring hospice at 5:20am on Monday, September 16, 2024. Her passing was preceded by her parents; her husband: Wallace; two brothers: Jerry Mahoney and Dan Mahoney; and a daughter: Christine Cornett.
To cherish her memory, she leaves three children; a daughter: Cynthia Swafford of Newport and two sons: Jeffrey Swafford of Korea and Gregory (Cindy) Swafford of Newport; one sister-in-law: Gayle Bryant; a niece: Brandy Bryant; eleven grandchildren: Amy Lynn, Brad (Rachel) Reaume, Casie Reaume, Gerold McKinney, Hannah Swafford, Louie Swafford, Madison Swafford, Morgan Swafford, Hannah (Ivan) Hotham, Teagan Walls, Logan Walls; twelve seven great grandchildren: Cameryn, Scott, Konnor, Mason, Presley, Luke, Ivan, Aiden, Bransyn, Desmond, Baylen, Juniper; Godson: Kevin (Angie) Mahoney; her lifelong best friend: Judy; her adopted niece: Kelly Gillbert; multiple nieces and nephews; and her fur babies: a Pug named Ralphie and a King Charles named Chloe.
The family will plan a Celebration of life to be held at a later date. Her care was entrusted to Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe; 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe, Michigan.
Mary’s family would like to give a special thank you to St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, along with Amanda, Danielle, and Alicia at Elara Caring Hospice.
