Claud Swafford

Claud Swafford, age 95, a native and lifelong resident of McMinn, passed away Thursday, June 4, 2026. He was a logger, construction worker, dairy farmer, and truck driver. Claud also worked with the McMinn County Highway Department and Walmart. He loved his mules. Claud was a member of Oak Grove Baptist Church.  

He is preceded in death by his parents: Willard H. and Ida Belle Womac Swafford, his loving wife of 60 years: Lola Virginia Cardin Swafford, an infant grandson: Ryan Lynn Swafford, brothers: Earl Swafford and Ray Swafford, and a sister: Betty Faye Swafford Jarvis.

Claud is survived by his sons: C.L. (Sandy) Swafford and Randy (Vonnie) Swafford, his grandchildren: Cushie (Tim) Stoika, Beth (Garry) Chappelle, Andrew Swafford, great-grandchildren: Ryan (Chelsea) Stoika, Zeke Stoika, Eli Stoika, Malea (Christian) Ford, great-great-grandchildren: Reme Louise Stoika, Sutton and Kollins Ford, his brothers: Rev. Ralph Swafford and Rudy (Virginia) Swafford, and his sisters: Ruby Sue Swafford and Ilene (Rev. Hugh) Bryan.

A visitation will be held on Monday, June 8, 2026, from 3:00-7:00 PM, with a funeral service to follow at 7:00 PM. Reverend Jimmy Lewis will be officiating. Graveside services will be held on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 at 11:00 AM at Oak Grove Cemetery.

Zeke Stoika, Eli Stoika, Ryan Stoika, Lee Swafford, Wayne Jarvis, and Garry Chappelle will serve as pallbearers. Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Bobby Jarvis and Tim Stoika.

The family would like to extend special thanks to Hospice of Chattanooga, especially Dr. Johnnie Carter, Jessica, Denise, Jenna, and Connie.

Family and friends are invited to sign the online guest registry at www.zieglerfuneralhome.com

Ziegler Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of Claud Swafford.