Thomas Harold Swaim

Thomas Harold Swaim was born July 16, 1941 in Hamptonville, NC. He died unexpectedly on September 12, having spent the day working on his beloved family farm.

Harold was preceded in death by his parents, Noah Jarvis Swaim and Juanita Howard Swaim. He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Wanda, son Jeffrey, daughter Lisa Mathis (John), grandchildren Michelle Mathis-Shore (Jake Shore) and Clint Mathis (Kari Faw), great granddaughter Violete Shore, brothers Kenny and Jerry (Tamra), nephew Jason (Christina), and niece Chelsea.

Harold was retired from Woodmen of the World Life Insurance Society, but continued his calling as a farmer to nurture and protect God’s creation. In 2022, he was honored as the N.C Outstanding Tree Farmer of the Year.

Harold was devoted to his family and his rich, extended network of friends and neighbors. He lived a life of service, including teaching numerous children to swim and taking others to overnight camp, many for their first time away from home.

He was a bright light and a joy to any and everyone who had the pleasure to get to know him. 

A service to celebrate Harold’s life will be held at 1:00 on Saturday, September 16 at Gentry Family Chapel in Yadkinville.  The family will receive friends after the service at Gentry Family Funeral Service in Yadkinville.  A private graveside service will be held at a later date.

Memorials may be made to Project Backpack at Samaritan Kitchen of Wilkes, PO Box 1072, Wilkesboro, NC 28697.  Gentry Family Funeral Service in Yadkinville is serving the Swaim family.  Online condolences can be made at www.gentryfuneralservice.com.