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Bill Swad Obituary

Swad Sr. Bill Swad Sr. The Gates of Heaven opened wide on February 9th, 2014 as Bill Swad, Sr. passed through to be with his closest friend, Jesus. And God said, "Well done, my good and faithful servant." "He who winneth souls is wise." Throughout his 83 years on earth he accomplished so much. First and foremost, he was a soul winner. As an auto dealer since April 8, 1957, you could not purchase a vehicle without him telling you about our Lord and Savior. He witnessed to everyone, waitresses, store clerks, presidents of companies, bankers, governors, lawyers, judges, restaurant owners and the kids on the street. Bill was founder and president of 5 auto dealerships: American Motors, Chrysler-Plymouth, Datsun, Winnebago and Chevrolet. He owned Omega Life Insurance Company and Hamilton Acceptance Corporation. He was Founder and Senior Pastor of Christian Center Church, in Gahanna, Ohio, for 49 years. The reason he started his auto dealerships was to support his church. His annual salary at Christian Center was one dollar. Bill, at one time, was Chairman of the Executive Committee of Oral Roberts University from which he received an Honorary Doctorate Degree. Bill was extremely active in the Full Gospel Businessmen's Association (FGBMA), working to establish numerous chapters throughout Ohio. He also did motivational speaking and preaching all over the world as he was continually on fire for the Lord. After selling his auto dealerships, Bill became involved in his residential community where he avidly served as President of the Colts Neck Homeowners Association. He was dedicated to keep everything beautiful as he worked with the Board to accomplish their goals. And while doing this he grew close to many of his Board Members who worked so diligently. All who had the privilege of knowing Bill Swad knew that he had a burden for anyone who had a problem. If you were having a problem and you came to him, he was always there to help and encourage in any way possible. Bill was born in Martins Ferry, Ohio on Friday, June 13, 1930. He was the son of Albert and Lela Davis Swad. He had five siblings, all deceased: Albert Jr., Charles, Ernest Eugene, Kenneth and Betty (Heid). Bill is survived by his loving wife, Sally, of 371/2 years; two sons, Bill Swad, Jr., (Barbara), Kevin Swad, (Annette); and three daughters, Kathy, (Jim) Cummings, Sue (Jeff) Lucas, and Laurie Archer Locke; and adored pets, Maggie and Mollie; 13 grandchildren, Noah (Meghan), Lee (Lindsey), Amy (Joey), Chad, James, Tara, Jeffrey (Sarah), Kate, Stephanie, Zack, Basil, Jacob and Madison; seven great grandchildren, Audrey, Gavin, Avery, Whitney, Dylan, Chloe and Jackson. Bill was a wonderful role model for all of his family and friends. He was our love - our strength and he shall be greatly missed. But we shall stand strong as he would want us to do, as we know he is with the Lord and we shall meet again someday. II Timothy 4:7, "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith". 'A Going Home Celebration' will be at Christian Center Church, 298 S. Rocky Fork Dr., Gahanna, Ohio at 11 a.m. Monday, February 17. Pastor Bill Young and Bill Swad, Jr. will be officiating. Visiting hours will be Sunday, February 16, 5-8 p.m. at Christian Center Church. In lieu of flowers, you may send donations to: Christian Center, 298 S. Rocky Fork Drive, Gahanna, Ohio 43230. Arrangements have been entrusted to SCHOEDINEGR NORTHEAST CHAPEL, 1051 E Johnstown Rd. Visit www.schoedinger.com to share a favorite memory or send a condolence.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Columbus Dispatch from Feb. 12 to Feb. 16, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Bill Swad

Not sure what to say?





Joyce Kirby Bailey

February 6, 2022

I still think of Pastor Bill, Sally, and the family often, with sweet memories. I miss my days of worship and learning more about Jesus at Christian Center. I know that Bill is praising God and singing praises in Heaven, and we will see him again. Love, Joyce

Phillip Johnson

October 24, 2014

Good man indeed. My condolences to the family and friends

September 8, 2014

I am so sorry for the loss of Bill...even tho I know he's with the Lord...I know you all will miss him. He was an amazing man....someone I won't forget. Bobbi Catesi

Larry Wilson

June 22, 2014

I just found out about the passing of Rev. Bill Swad just today , my heart is heavy ... I had the privilege of attending several services with Rev. Bill and he truly had a passion for soul and he loved to talk about jesus his Savior ! After talking with him on several occasions we soon discovered we had something more than our faith in commoon, WE WERE BOTH JOHNNY CASH FANS !!! At the end of one of the services he told me to stand by for a second he left and soon re-appeared holding an old and well read pretty much worn out bible too which he proudly opened to the front and said " Do you recognize this ?" As he directed me to look at a signature of Johnny Cash ! His bible was already one of his most prized possesions and now even more so since "The Man in Black" had put his mark on it ! Rev. Bill was and is a wonderful man of God and he will be missed ! My condolences to the family and friends and church family for the loss of a true soul winner !Yours in Christ , Larry Wilson. (614) 561 6594.

Bob Whittinghill & Family

June 13, 2014

Awesome man of God, learned so much at his Church.

William Flanagan

April 15, 2014

A very motivating person, thank you for all your guidance and opportunity RIP

Robert Meadows

March 15, 2014

I am so sorry to hear that Bill passed away and my prayers and thoughts are with the family.
Bill was a good man and he did as he said he would do. Bill you were a good person to work for. God be with you.
Bob

Dave Myers

February 20, 2014

Kathy, You might night remember me. This is Dave Myers we went to Gahanna Lincoln together. Want to say I'm sorry to here of Bill's death, he was a great guy. Email me you want to talk. [email protected]

February 19, 2014

Sally Dear~Our deepest condolences to you and your lovely family. May G'D soothe the sorrow you're feeling at the moment. Stay strong and take care. Much love, The Rogovins'

Ginger Cunningham

February 17, 2014

My prayers go out to the family during this your time of sorow. He will be greatly missed, he was a great person who touched so many lives wiht his spiritual inlightenment.
Ginger Cunningham

Don & Becki Miller

February 17, 2014

Pastor Bill Swad was one of the best friends our family ever had. As we went through a very difficult time, his love, encouragement, and wisdom was a much needed source of strength and guidance. It is impossible for mere words to express how much he meant to our lives. We will miss him greatly. Truly, he was a man after God's own heart. To Sally and all the family: we love you and are praying for you. Love, from the Miller Family - Don, Becki, Jonathan, and Cristina

Anita Steere-Pasco

February 17, 2014

I am so sorry to hear that Bill has passed away. I knew him through my ex when he worked for Bill many years ago. He always had a smile. I wish his family, Ken, Bonnie and Scott all the best in the world. My prayers are with you all.

Pastor R Spencer Butts

February 17, 2014

Pastor Swad, Sr. has been a mighty blessing to the young people of Rehoboth Temple. He helped us on our trips and with our robes. He let his choir give a concert with our church youth choir under the direction of Brother David Hawkins. I will never forget his big heart and sincere kindness.
Sincerely,
Pastor R Spencer Butts
He will be greatly missed! ALL OUR LOVE TO THE FAMILY AND OUR PERSONAL FRIEND, BILL SWAD, JR.

Debbie Schultz

February 17, 2014

Hold him always in your heart dear Laurie <3

Kevin Anderson

February 16, 2014

Pastor Bill spoke some words that showed me there were other people that believed the Bible was true, I was born again then baptized at CC. Thank you Pastor Bill for showing Jesus to many... Still serving Christ

Howard Price, Jr.

February 16, 2014

Bill Sr. inspired everyone he met. He was always so positive and thinking a few steps ahead in every conversation. He will be missed by many, yet the family has such wonderful memories that will bring them peace. It was an "Honor" to have known him.

Sandy Brown

February 16, 2014

I remember my Mother taking me to Pastor Swad's church on occasion for gospel concerts he would have. Mom did buy one of her cars from him. It was a Datson station wagon. Rest in peace Pastor Swad. Well done faithful servant.

Carolyn Fenice

February 16, 2014

To the Swad Family, I started in the car business back
in 1959 with Mr, Swad as the title clerk, I returned to
Swad Chev. and enjoyed working there,
I am very sorry to read about his passing. I retired in 1999.
Rest in Peace
Carolyn Fenice (Elliott)

February 16, 2014

Honesty is very rewarding.
Bill is proof of that.
[email protected]

Debbie Kirby-Larkin

February 16, 2014

Rest in peace Pastor Swad, you made a profound mark on my life as a young teen. We had the strongest, and maybe the largest, youth group at Christian Center. You taught us to go into hospitals and pray for the sick. I learned to kneel before our Lord and pray. I loved Sunday school with Bill as our teacher. As an adult I worked at Christian Center as the church secretary. Thank you for your leadership and the guidance you gave to me. My deepest condolences to Sally, Bill, Jr. And the rest of the family. My prayers are with you.

Lora Fry Michael

February 15, 2014

40 years ago Pastor Swad challenged a 17 year old girl to rise up out of her seat and walk to the alter and give her heart to Jesus. He prayed the prayer of salvation with me and several others that day. My life was forever changed. Many of my family members re-dedicated their lives and most of my cousins and friends joined the best youth group on the planet. His life was a testimony for the love of a merciful God.

February 15, 2014

I have always considered it an honor to have
known Bill as a friend and a brother in Christ,
someone who set a great example for others. My most humble condolences to Sally
and family. My prayers are with you all, your brother in Christ, Gene Flowers.

Gale Davis

February 15, 2014

My condolences to the whole family. He was a great and honorable Man of God. My prayers are with all of you. May God Bless you all.

Gale S. Davis

Donna Lipps

February 15, 2014

R.I.P Bill Swad Sr.

John Cassidy

February 15, 2014

My sympathies to the entire Swad family. Bill, Sr has touched so many lives, and he has profoundly touched mine. I am deeply saddened that he is gone but he is certainly "going home" . His inspiration, love, and leadership lives on through all of us and I am so grateful to have known him. God bless!

February 15, 2014

Sorry to hear about the passing Bill Swad Sr. I was one of the waitress that waited on Bill for many years.I still have my bible he gave over twenty years ago. May God give you peace and comfort.Nieda Blann

February 14, 2014

Please know that we are praying for your strength & peace during this time of transition - GOD BLESS !

February 14, 2014

JOE Hans will be waiting for him.

Sarah Dygert

February 14, 2014

I will always remember Bill (and Sally) as one of my grandparents closest friends. I will always remember going to his church on Sunday mornings and to lunch at Max and Ermas after. I was a very young girl then, but even then I knew how special and inspirational he was. I know that he will be greatly missed.

Roy Tremble

February 14, 2014

I first met Bill Swad in 1965 while traveling with my first full time Gospel Music group, The Lancers. In 1987 my life was a mess, Bill moved me to Columbus and really ministered to me and helped me get back on my feet. Sally, Bill Jr and the rest of the family, I love you and am praying for during this difficult time.

Russ Stillwagon

February 14, 2014

Jr., Sorry about the loss of your dad...He was always so full of life and so nice to me. He give me my first car job and still going strong after 27 years!! He will be missed!!

Dennis Jordan

February 13, 2014

Kevin, your dad has left an amazing legacy of serving the kingdom of God! He was a saint fighting for souls to be saved into the kingdom. We express condolence to you and your family and at the same time celebrate with your family that he is sitting at Jesus feet tonight chatting and sharing in the presence of God in heaven. May God's peace fill your family's heart. Dennis & Darlene

Bob Rose

February 13, 2014

Our condolences to the entire family. He was very special to us. Bob, Judy and Cole Rose. Blessed Towing.

Bradley Howard

February 13, 2014

Very sad to lose a great guy.

February 13, 2014

Bill Jr., Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you. I hope you find strength knowing when you lose your dad there is an emptiness in your heart that fills with wonderful memories. I know how much he meant to you, he will surely be missed.
Your friend,
Dick Wollett

Anita Stevens

February 13, 2014

I met Pastor Swad on a plane from Florida to Ohio going to a funeral for my dear niece. Pastor Swad spoke of God's peace doing sad times. He gave me a card and said if I needed anything ask. When a few later I moved to ohio I went to Christian Center. His knowledge and love of God and willingness to share his faith that not only he believed but also lived has always been a inspiration for me. Sally so sorry for your great loss. Praying peace.

Cathy Green

February 13, 2014

My condolences to the family. My dad worked for Mr. Swad in the 60s. May God watch over the family .

Bob & Kathy Fry

February 13, 2014

Bill had profound influence on Kathy and my life as young people 40 years ago at Christian Center. Bill spent time at our home putting the Word of God in us and instilled a deep desire in us to win the lost. I am sure there are countless others who can share as well of his encouragement to minister for the Lord, give opportunity to preach for young ministers, and teach faithfully the ways of the Lord to all who came to hear. The world was blessed because of him.

Pastor Charles "Big Chuck" Harvey Jr

February 13, 2014

Our deepest sympathies and warmest condolences to the Swad Family. Bill Swad Sr. was a true 'living legend' in business and in ministry. He will truly be missed.

Joyce Kirby-Bailey

February 13, 2014

Bill, Sr., was my Sunday School teacher when I was younger. My family and I watched Christian Center grow and were blessed to have a part in that. I have sweet memories of the Swad family and some very humorous ones, as well. Blessings and hugs to the family... I love you all!

William (Billy) Peters

February 13, 2014

I remember the first time going into the Lighthouse, to pick out a gift...20 years later The Lord grabbed hold of my heart and has been giving back to me. So now Pastor Bill has gone into THE Heavens, and seen MANY GIFTS but mostly, he has SEEN Jesus FACE TO FACE. Hallelujah!

February 13, 2014

God Bless the Swad Family

Bruce & Jayne Holder Holder

February 13, 2014

A Good friend of ours, Rick Cermelj, came to know Jesus as Lord and savior because of Bill. Rick was metting with Bill to sell him Insurance. Rick was wild as you could almost be, with a wife, Ginger, and 2 young children. The 1st thing Bill did was find out if he knew Jesus as Lord and Savior. He didn't and that's all it took. Rick went to the Full Gospel Meeting, Got Saved and Rick brought many people to The Lord Jesus. Rick died 4 years later, he had been a Teacher & at his going home party there were a lot of his Students. There must have been over 30 that gave their lives to the Lord Jesus. Thanks Bill for bring My Friend Rick and many to have Eterhnal Life. Bruce Holder.

February 13, 2014

RIP Bill Swad Sr.

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Memorial Events
for Bill Swad

Feb

16

Visitation

5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Christian Center Church

OH 43230

Feb

17

Celebration of Life

11:00 a.m.

Christian Center Church

298 S. Rocky Fork Dr., Gahanna, OH 43230

Funeral services provided by:

Schoedinger Margarum Northeast

1051 E Johnstown Road, Gahanna, OH 43230

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