John Harwell Swaim was born on April 10, 1943, in Olney, Texas to parents Santa Earl “Legs” Swaim and Aline Harwell Swaim. John went to be with our Lord and Savior on February 22, 2025. John was one of three brothers born to his parents. John was raised and schooled in Olney, Texas. Following his graduation from high school, John wed his wife Carlyn Swedlund on July 12, 1963. Following their marriage, John and Carlyn moved to Tyler, Texas where they continue to reside today. John worked as a carpenter for the Cotton Belt Railroad until his retirement.

John gave his heart to the Lord in 1993. He had a passion and a special calling to tell people about Jesus. Everywhere he went, he gave people gospel tracts in an effort to save as many souls as he could. He was a very giving person, always putting others before himself. His devotion to his family was always steadfast and unwavering. Everything he did, he did for his family and their wellbeing. John’s hobbies included cooking and baking, his specialty being his famous chocolate cake that he would make for all his children and grandchildren. He also was an avid collector of many treasures. John was a lover of music, some of favorites being Hank Williams and Gene Watson.

John is preceded in death by his parents S.E. Swaim and Aline Harwell Swaim, his nephew Sevan Swaim and his sister-in-law Gail Swaim. Those left to cherish his memory include his beloved wife, Carlyn Swedlund Swaim of Tyler, TX, daughter Rebecca and husband David Sorge of Tyler, TX, son Eric and wife Tomi Ann Swaim of Bossier City, LA, son Mark of Tyler, TX. Brothers include Earl and wife Odie Swaim of Sachse, TX and Marvin and wife Wanda Swaim of Olney, TX. Brothers-in-law include James and wife Brenda Swedlund of Speedwell, TN and John and wife Janiece Swedlund of Austin, TX. Grandchildren include Brandy and husband Will Knobler of Dallas, TX, Josh and wife Natalie Sorge of Brownsboro, TX, Savannah Swaim of Tyler, TX and John Matthew Swaim of Bossier City, LA. Greatgrandchildren include Noah and Ella Sorge of Brownsboro, TX and Emory and Walker Knobler of Dallas, TX. John also had numerous nieces and nephews that he left behind. John was a very loving husband, father, uncle, and grandfather (“Papaw”).

There is not a funeral service planned at this time. Memorial service to be determined.