Swift Alphonso Burch III

In Loving Memory of Swift Alphonso Burch III Beloved Husband, Father, Son, Brother and Friend May 8, 1969 – May 21, 2025 With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of one of the most beautiful souls you will ever encounter. Swift Alphonso Burch III passed away on the night of May 21, 2025 as angels ushered him into Heaven to be with Jesus. After a long 9 year courageous and heroic battle with rectal cancer, he is no longer in pain, and he is in the most beautiful place anyone here could ever imagine. Born and raised in Washington, D.C., Swift carried the spirit of resilience and excellence from his earliest days. Swift graduated from Temple University, played TU football, and was one of the strongest ALUM there is. While at Temple, Swift formed lasting friendships and relationships. He spoke to many of them during his final days in the hospital, many calling to check on him, and many getting the opportunity to send one last message of love to him even when he couldn't speak back, he could hear their love for him. A gifted athlete and devoted teammate, he pursued his dreams with unwavering determination, ultimately earning his place in professional football. Swift played in both the National Football League ( NFL ) and the Canadian Football League (CFL), where he left his mark not only through his athletic ability but also through his dedication on and off the field. Swift lived in Canada for a number of years, before moving to Phoenix he had lived in Chicago before thinking of laying roots here in Phoenix. He was committed to staying in Phoenix for 5 years before considering moving anywhere again. When Swift first moved here he was on the Board of Big Brothers Big Sisters. Swift was a Big Brother for many years to Keenan, whom he saw all the way through his formative years. To this day Swift and Keenan, now a grown young man, would keep in contact even after he moved out of the state. Beyond the stadium lights, Swift was a simple man. He was a deeply devoted family man. He was a loving husband to Chantelle Burch, and together they built a life rooted in commitment, strength, and shared purpose. Swift and Chantelle met at their church bible study 15 years ago. Swift joined their church in 2009, while Chantelle has been a member for the past 22 years. Together they committed to putting Jesus at the center of their marriage. Their vows were vows that rang true for better or worse, for richer for poor, in sickness and in health. Jesus, their church and the body of Christ has been the center for the foundation of their marriage and their family from beginning to the end. Swift was a PROUD and LOVING father to their two children, Sydah Jayde Burch and Swift Kenzo Burch IV whose lives are a reflection of his warmth, strength, and UNWAVERING LOVE. Swift was diagnosed with rectal cancer in 2016. His son was only three years old when this long battle began. Through every surgery, treatment and trial, Swift faced his illness with intense bravery and grace. Many new faces in their lives had no idea of Swift's battle because this family chose to show up for their kids and live life to the fullest as his body was able to until the end. By Swift's choice he chose to put the words cancer behind him to be present and live life for his kids. Being present for soccer and academics was of most pride for Swift. Guiding them with life lessons was some of the most meaningful and memorable for him. He loved his children to the depths of his soul. His strength inspired all who knew him, and his legacy of perseverance, compassion, and resilience will live on through Sydah and Kenzo (Swift Kenzo Burch IV). He will be remembered for his quiet but confident demeanor, fierce loyalty, and the profound love he had for his family. Though he has left this world, Swift's spirit remains alive in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. In his own final words, Swift shared how he wished to be remembered: "I am a man of few words, when I do say something, I mean it. When I say I'm going to do something, I'm going to do it. I cherish my friendships, my time with people. Most importantly, I am an amazing father. My kids know that I love them-I say it all the time, I show it all the time. I don't think I'm leaving this world with them having any doubt about my love. I've made a lasting impact on them. That will stay with them forever." Swift is survived by his loving wife Chantelle, their two children Sydah Jayde Burch and Swift Kenzo Burch IV; his mother Joyce P Burch; sister Christina Burch; brothers Brian Burch, Green Miller III, and Gregory Miller; father-in-law Henry LaRoque, mother-in-law Yvonne LaRoque, sister-in-law Dallas Trumble, as well as extended family, his church community, and a wide circle of friends and teammates from Temple University (#TempleTUFF). He is welcomed into Heaven and reunited with his father Swift Burch Jr. and grandfather Swift Burch Sr. A Celebration of Life for Swift Alphonso Burch III will be held on: June 20, 2025 at 10:00 AM Impact Church, Scottsdale, AZ In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to their GoFundMe: Stand With Swift's Family Rest in Heaven, Swift. You fought with unmatched bravery and lived with purpose. Your legacy of love, strength, and unwavering faith will live on forever in your children-and we know you'll always be watching from the sidelines, cheering them on as they play the game you loved.