Clara B Swift

2 Timothy 4:7-8

I have fought a good fight; I have finished my course; I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteousness judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all of them also that love his appearing.

Clara B. McGown-Swift, 80, departed this life on January 12, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love and devotion that will forever resonate in the hearts of her family and friends. Clara, the beloved matriarch of the Swift family, was born on January 15, 1944, in Hughes, Arkansas, to the late Willie McGown and Corine Payne-McGown. Clara was a beacon of light, strength, and compassion to everyone who graced her presence.

Clara was a devoted caregiver for her mother, Corine McGown; her father, Willie McGown Sr.; her aunt, Marie Brown; and her brother, Isaiah “Son” McGown. She also played a significant role in raising her grandchildren, embodying love and support in every aspect of her life. This included protecting her community on Apple Street and looking out for the neighbors' safety and welfare.

Clara was employed by VM and Ball Rubber until health issues led to early retirement, she became a lifetime caregiver and homemaker.

Clara was baptized at an early age in Hughes, Arkansas. However, she was baptized after moving to Benton Harbor in the early 70s. She rededicated her life to Christ at Main Street Seventh-Day Adventist Church led by Pastor David Jones, which is now known as the Highland Avenue Seventh-Day Adventist Church, under the leadership of Pastor Denry O. White; where she was a member for many years. She was honored multiple times for her dedicated and outstanding service as a deaconess, usher, hospitality committee, assistant sabbath schoolteacher, and maintaining the church flowers and flower beds.

Clara had several hobbies: cooking, baking, sewing, bowling, shopping, and gardening. She also wore classy fashionista clothing, hats, and shoes. Most of all, she loved reading the Bible and spending time with her family and friends.

Clara's unwavering love for her family was evident in everything she accomplished. She is survived by her devoted son, William E. Swift Jr., and three beautiful daughters, Carla (Jeryle Sr.) Jones, Glenda F. Swift, and Wanda (Michael Sr.) Swift-Horne; one sister, Lowretter Berry;  five granddaughters; Lashae (Eric) Krapf, Chiquita (Derrick Sr.) Campbell, Dahlia Horne, Mikala Horne, and Mishael Horne; six grandsons, Xavier (Sarah) Swift, Cedrick Jabriel Brown, Jeryle A. Jones Jr., Kenneth Meridy, Jr., Kendrick Meridy, and Michael Horne Jr. She was blessed with twelve great-grandchildren, a host of nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, and cousins; her very special companion, Mr. Eddie Smith; a beloved bonus sister, Bernice Brown-Bell; and two bonus brothers, Roger Miller, and Andrew Freeman.

Clara was preceded in death by her parents, Willie McGown Sr. and Corine Payne-McGown; her son, Bobby D. Swift; three brothers, Billy Charles “BC” McGown, Willie McGown Jr., and Isaiah “Son” McGown. She also mourned the loss of her aunt, Marie Brown; cousin, Ivory McGown; nephew, Ricky Lee Davis; great nephew, Jamaal Walker; and bonus sister, the late Essie Gathing.

Clara B. Swift's life was a testament to the power of love and family. Her personality was a mix of sweetness and sass, and those who knew her will forever remember her strength, humor, and passion for her family. Her spirit will continue to inspire those who knew her, and her memory will be lovingly preserved in the hearts of all fortunate enough to be part of her life.

Clara has fought the good fight and has now ascended as an Ancestor. May she rest in peace!

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