Brian R. Swords

I was a high school classmate of Brian’s and hadn’t seen him since Christmas break during our freshman year of college. I went to Notre Dame and settled in Chicago and never reconnected with my high school mates until our 35th reunion. In spite of the expanse of time, I can still remember his smile, his glasses, his plaid suit, his sense of humor, and the fact that he grew nearly six inches between graduation May 1970 and that first Christmas. I am really touched by the tributes that all of...

Hello,

I was a highschool classmate of Brian's. I actually had a crush on him in Junior year.... He was a nice gentle guy. I will always remember him in his plaid jacket and glasses. It makes me happy to see he has a wonderful family.

I knew Brian in high school and was sorry to hear about his passing. I kept tabs on Brian through mutual friends while in college (where I learned that my gangly HS friend had become something of a rugby legend) but lost the thread many years ago. In one sense, Brian came alive for me again for a brief moment as I read the many stories posted here in the guest book about his rugby days, his moving exploits, Celtic heritage, etc. But that moment is now over. I'm sorry to see he's gone.

It comes as a deep shock for me to hear this news about Brian Swords who has mentored me in my job. His great attitude at work on the difficult times of the company is something I can never forget. Brian has not left us. He is and will be living in our memories forever. My heartiest condolences to his family members.

To the Swords Family,

While Brian's foot print in life and in rugby was international, the New England rugby community especially benefited from his spirit and leadership, and is saddened by his loss.

As a member of the Hartford Wanderers RFC in 80's and 90's, I can tell you that Brian (and his Beacon Hill RFC mates) fostered a level of spirit and comraderie that has made the game unique and great. My memories of the competition between our clubs is dominated by Brian's...

We met Brian over the years on the sidelines of basketball courts across the northeast and beyond. It was always a pleasure to be the recipient of his warm smile and kindness. Our hearts go out to the Swords family, he will be missed.

We knew Brian through hockey and lacrosse. Our sons were on the same team for many a year. We used to enjoy standing on the sidelines with him as we watched the kids. He was a wonderful man and he will be missed.

Thanks to Steve Durrant's rugby email collective, [email protected], I learned of Brian's death. Brian is remembered fondly by my wife and I, as a wonderful man, and a superb leader. I first met Brian via Holy Cross rugby, where I played from 76-80 - and had the privilege of playing with two of his younger brothers, Kevin and Danny. When I was raising funds for our team to participate in the first east coast collegiate rugby tournament, I wrote to Brian, and he not only donated generously,...