Swanson peacefully entered into the loving arms of our Lord and Savior on December 21, 2025, resting now in the eternal glory of Heaven. He was lovingly preceded in death by his devoted wife of 46 years, Elsie Hardy Walker, who went home to be with the Lord in 2007. Born on August 22, 1936, in Halifax, Virginia, he was the beloved son of the late Fannie Powell Walker and Clifton Archie Walker.

A faithful servant of Christ, Swanson was a lifelong member of the Baptist faith and an active pillar of the Freedom Baptist Church family. Through his years of service, he humbly served by driving the church bus, faithfully transporting God's flock. Called to work diligently throughout his life, he began his career as a truck driver at age 19, faithfully providing for his family and serving others until his retirement in 2019. When not serving in the house of the Lord, he found joy in simple blessings, such as tending his lawn on his riding mower or watching the Atlanta Braves, rejoicing in God's creation.

Swanson was preceded in death by his sister Laura Jane Lacks; his precious daughter, Annette Walker Cyr; his nephew, Byron Oakes; and his grandson, Harry Wayne Oakes II.

He leaves behind a legacy of faith and love in his sons David Oakes and Harry Oakes (Becky); grandchildren Janey Critchley (Russell), Tony Oakes (Tina), Deserae Leach, Sarah Wyatt (Chip), Kimberly Oakes-Burton (Heather), and Brandi Oakes; cousin Brenda Powell (Ronnie); and a blessed family of thirteen great-grandchildren and ten great-great-grandchildren.

A celebration of Swanson's life will be held on 11 a.m. Friday, December 26, 2025, at Freedom Baptist Church, with Pastor Greg Corcoran officiating, the Inurnment will be private. The family will receive friends will receive friends one hour prior to services beginning at 10 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Swanson's memory by making donations to Freedom Baptist Church or the SPCA of Martinsville and Henry County, continuing his spirit of giving and compassion.

"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted." — Matthew 5:4