John Kirben Swofford, Jr., age 84, born to the late Sadie and John Swofford, Sr. on February 8, 1932 in Hollis, passed away peacefully in his Polkville home on Tuesday, July 19, 2016 after a valiant battle with cancer. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Mavin Swofford; his daughter Patricia Flynn Mull and her husband, David; his son Floyd Swofford and his wife, Barbara; his twin brother, Dwight Swofford and his sisters Ruby Price and Vera Gettys. He leaves behind four grandchildren; Jamie Swofford, Angela Owens, Beverly Owens and Ryan Flynn, and five great grandchildren; Madison Owens, Jackson Owens, Emma Owens, Alex Flynn and Colton Flynn.

John Swofford, the man with a crooked smile, was a man of many occupations; he was a husband, father, farmer, sawmill worker, serviceman, volunteer firefighter, welder, and welding instructor. Swofford was an honorable Army veteran, serving in the 1945 Korean Conflict. Back home in Cleveland County, he spent 30 years serving as a volunteer firefighter for the Cleveland Fire Department and the Polkville Fire Department. As a skilled welder, he spent two decades as shop foreman at GoForth Brothers in Shelby, and later shared his experience at Cleveland Technical College, now Cleveland Community College, as a welding instructor. He was a lifelong member of Hollis United Methodist Church and later joined Big Springs Baptist Church.Ollis United Methodist ChurchHo

Swofford had a heart for community, hosting cookouts for friends and family, which was his greatest joy. His distinct brand of humor will be remembered as well as his love of farm and family. He rests peacefully now with his Lord and savior, Jesus Christ.

Funeral service will be 3:00pm Saturday, July 23, 2016 at Big Springs Baptist Church, Ellenboro. Visitation will follow in the church fellowship hall.

Memorials can be made to Hollis United Methodist Church Cemetery Fund.

Cecil M Burton Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the family of Mr. Swofford.

Guest Registry is available at www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com