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GEORGE SWIFT Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for GEORGE SWIFT
Barbara Gates
March 29, 2024
Today I was reminded of something George Swift said to me about how thinking about doing something can often be more stressful than actually getting down to doing that thing. I want to share that the sweet echo of George´s grace, kindness, gentleness, wisdom and humanity still reverberates in me. I had the great fortune of working with him for one year at Bigelow MS when I was a student teacher. Now 18 years into my career, I call up many moments from that experience to help guide me in my practice and even in life. My craft is all the more informed and skilled for what I got from George and I continue to honor and recognize that. His influence is quite alive.
Underwood School
March 31, 2023
I had the distinct pleasure of doing part of my Lesley College practicum with George at the Underwood School in Newton way back in 1992. George had a way with his students--just the right amount of care and concern with a touch of sarcasm and wit to win them over.
After observing him for just a little while, I modeled myself after him in so many different ways whenever I was in front of a group of students.
As someone who's been involved with environmental issues for 35+ years, I loved the fact that, unless there were six inches of snow on the ground or a torrential downpour, George biked from Jamaica Plain to Newton Corner and back virtually every day.
I was talking with a friend of mine today, whose son was taught by George, and I mentioned how I never got around to telling, sadly, his widow, Susan, just how much he meant to me. I would love to share some of my memories of George with her if she sent me an email.
In closing, George was a joy to work with, and I know every one of his students adored him.
I'm sorry it's taken me so long to pay my respects to someone who meant so much to me.
Carey S. Buttfield
Ron Faccenda
March 24, 2017
Not sure what led me to George's obituary over two years after his passing. I met George at MIT back in 1965. We became friends mostly around a shared interest in music. With Stan and Ray, friends I still see today, we formed a R&R band called The Horse, short for "...and the horse you rode in on". Of course he was the drummer. Lots of fond memories from those days. After college, George and I were two of the 10 folks who moved into a 'group house' in Arlington and still played music for a while. For whatever reasons our paths separated and we saw very little of each other. I always regretted not keeping in touch with him and missed the times we played music together.
Fast forward to maybe 2012 when I ran into George at an MIT reunion. It was wonderful seeing him again. He told me about his band and I told him about mine. We even got what was left of the Horse to do a reunion jam in his basement. We were horrible and great and had an absolutely wonderful time.
I mentioned that my band was playing at Copperfield's near Fenway park and that we were annoyed that they wanted us to make sure we drew a crowd. And, we needed to find an opening band. George immediately said he'd love to have his band be our opener and that he could guarantee 50 people. I remember having my doubts. I shouldn't have worried. George's band was responsible for something like 70 folks. I loved watching him that night, singing his songs and sitting at the drum kit. It was great to see him having such a wonderful time doing something he loved so much.
It was wonderful to see how his life had unfolded since we had parted ways many years earlier, and to see the impact he had on so many others. The tributes to him as a teacher, here and at the celebration of his life, are incredibly heartwarming. It seems that George had found the perfect expression for who he was. It was very satisfying to get together with George again after so many years, and I'm happy I got to play a small role in the events that got George and his band playing for friends and family.
I will always remember George as a young man and feel some sadness that I didn't know him as his life unfolded. At the same time it is wonderful to know that he had a loving family and so many friends and people who loved him for how he had touched their lives.
Former Student
December 21, 2016
I had Mr. Swift as a teacher in his last year prior to retirement from Bigelow Middle School. I have no words to describe the truly awesome generosity, openness, cheerfulness, optimism, and just overwhelming kindness that he portrayed every day that I knew him. He was one of the greatest men I have ever met.
Mr. Swift was on one hand a great teacher -- he kept the material alive by sourcing a multitude of different sources, using video, computer games, books, even historical actors to bring early astronomy into a relatable context. One never knew what to expect walking into that classroom -- before learning about volcanoes, he began class by playing Johnny Cash's "Ring of Fire". His lectures were more like Roosevelt's fireside chats. He would sit in front of the room with a big smile on his face, and engage in a conversation with the class. Not once did he ever correct a student harshly -- if there was a wrong answer, he would question us kindly, and then help us reach the more correct answer in a way that we felt respected. Sometimes he would class the class to gather around him, out of the blue, and we might talk about a certain artifact he had on the table. While studying geology, for instance, he would spread rocks throughout the room on the tables and come around to discuss what we thought of our rocks and what their the best scientific label and nickname would be for them. Mr. Swift seemed to always try and let students pursue their scientific passions as much as possible. Many assignments let us direct the research into something we ourselves found fascinating.
I was very fortunate to also know Mr. Swift as a participant in a mentor program he led. While others fooled around in reading blocks, Mr. Swift paired a few select 8th graders with 6th graders who were having a bit of trouble feeling welcome in the school. I fondly remember aiding my partner in accomplishing his homework, and feeling very proud of his success. Now I realize the skills that Mr. Swift was so tactfully directly towards me as well, as he taught me to empathize with those around me and to be be generous with aid.
Mr. Swift was truly one of a kind. He was entertaining but consistently meaningful. He always used to say that he never sent a kid to the principal's office, and though some in our class pushed him, he showed grace and authority in a way that I can only aspire. I feel honored to have known him and even years after his passing still miss his presence dearly. I often draw back on his class in thinking about how to approach problems I face today. Truly a great man.
Thank you for the teachings.
Nick, Marie & Greg McCummings (#10)
February 18, 2015
Susan, Jeff and Katy:
We are so sorry to hear about George. Found out yesterday and can't believe it. This world will not be the same without him. He was so awesome. One of the best neighbors a person could ask for.
Sending you all hugs and hope you are doing ok :)
We miss our great neighbors, but love our new neighborhood. We have incredible neighbors here.
R Fei
November 18, 2014
Your reach has touched countless young lives throughout the years, you will never be forgotten
Jess P-S
November 16, 2014
I had Mr. Swift in eighth grade three years ago. He was the quirky timeless science teacher who made middle school a little friendlier. He was passionate and overwhelmingly kind at times. I know that if anyone of us asked him a question he would answer patiently, truthfully, and casually. We bonded over both living in JP. I remember when he brought in his Wayne's World dvd for us to watch on the bus after a field trip and how he laughed when I asked him if it was the type of thing he watched in his spare time. I remember laughing when he showed us his 5th grade school picture, seeing that his hair stuck up the same way back then, and when he said a girl in his school once compared it to a wheat field. Mr. Swift rode his bicycle to school almost everyday, shared a lifetime of knowledge with his students, and let us choose special minerals to take home at the end of the year. He treaded the earth gently but left a great impact on so many of us. Someone once asked "When will humans go extinct?" He bluntly replied "Humans? I highly doubt we'll last for another 1,000 years." I'm sorry he wasn't around longer. My condolences to his friends and family.
November 10, 2014
Mr. Swift, you were my 8th grade science teacher and was the best and kindest one i've ever had
Barbara Gates
November 6, 2014
George was my mentor when I was a student teacher at Bigelow in 2004. I have always considered teaching the kind of profession one is best prepared for in an apprenticeship. I feel so fortunate to have been in George's classroom. I learned so much about Earth Science, passion for learning and teaching, respecting students, navigating "the system" with grace, and being a colleague. He was kind and insightful at a time when I was very vulnerable. I continue try to live up to the kind of teacher he was and cherish the opportunity I had to learn from him.
Marisa Ng
November 3, 2014
Mr. Swift was my 8th grade teacher four years ago and he was by far one of my favorite teachers I have ever had! I first met him when I was a young 6th grader going to the Bigelow After School program with my older sister. He is wise and funny. He's knowledge has always been so helpful with all kinds of question especially homework questions. He was also someone that I could easily confide in and was an amusing conversationalist. I also had him as my community teacher and the students loved the pineapple and cat cookies he would bring in. He also had us write letters to ourselves and at the end of the year that letter became important. I remember I asked him if someone's words put me down if that was considered bullying. We had a heartfelt discussion about know3ing who your true friends are. I remember when we had the rock test (when we had to identify different rock types). Mr. Swift said I was the only one to get everything right and get a A+ . He will always be remembered in my heart. I am sorry for your loss.
Roberta Whalen
November 3, 2014
George, your welcoming smile, encouraging attitude and joy will always be with me. Rest In Peace
Jon Galloni
October 31, 2014
Thanks George for being so welcoming! You will be greatly missed!
Annette Baccari
October 30, 2014
George, you'll be sorely missed by all who knew you, students and adults. You were a great teacher and mentor along with a being a great group player after hours playing and singing to your hearts desires for everyone to enjoy. You left too soon but I guess God needed to use your talents back home for a specific reason. God Bless You.
October 30, 2014
Mr. Swift was our son's 5th grade teacher at Underwood 21 years ago. He was a favorite teacher for Nicholas and for us. He seemed to have a great respect for learning which he passed on to the kids. He respected the students and allowed them to explore what interested them. He was approachable, enthusiastic and was a great teacher. We are so sad to learn of his early death.
John and Sally Sciretta
Teresa Olivo
October 30, 2014
There are some people who are so unique and special that their essence may pass into another dimension,but they are ever present and in a particular way - eternal.
George and I have been friends since we were 15, along with that original 'advanced' group at Waltham High,some of whom we are still in touch with. When we spoke on Thursday,he decribed these individuals as "very noble people ". George is one of the most noble,honest,generous friends that I have ever had and I selfishly feel so sad these days. Petter,George,his wife and I met in Florence in March and I was reminded once again of the inestimable value of friendship.
George's outstanding intelligence,his love for his family,friends and students were attributes I always admired about him.
Although I have lived far from friends and family for so long,George along with Judy, Lan and Frank, are peole whom I've carried in my heart all my life with great love and fond memeories.
Sincerest condolances to his wonderful family.
Trese
October 30, 2014
It was very sad to learn of George's illness and passing. I remember him as a fine person and dedicated teacher with principles and integrity which were evident to those who worked with him, as I had the pleasure to do at Underwood School. My condolences to his family.
Miriam Goldberg
Kenneth Landers
October 30, 2014
I remember Mr. Swift well from my time at Bigelow. He was a kind man with a sincere passion for teaching. I know his students in Newton will miss him.
Karen Rosen
October 30, 2014
So Sorry to hear of George's passing.I always think of him fondly playing for hours with Jeff and Brian. As an elementery school boy Brian
would often pack up his dinosoars
and books and games about
baseball to go to see the
winnick/swifts.
I would tell him I didn't think
Jeff would be interested in
what he was hauling over and
he told me"I am not going to
play with Jeff , I am going to
play with George." And off he
would go and George would engage
with him for hrs. George thank you
for all you gave to our Brian.
Jarred Amato
October 29, 2014
Mr. Swift is one of the reasons I decided to become a teacher. I was fortunate enough to be his student as a fifth grader at Underwood and then again as an eighth grader at Bigelow. There are so many things I remember about Mr. Swift -- how he often rode his bike to work, his interactive, hands-on approach to learning, and his genuine passion for his students. Mr. Swift had a gift for making all people feel loved and cared for, and the beautiful thing is that he was able to pass that legacy on to thousands of others.
John Shirley
October 29, 2014
Many old friends from Waltham are sad at George's passing. He told me over the summer that he hoped to make our 50th high school reunion next year. Rest assured that he will be well remembered.
John Cooke
October 29, 2014
So sorry to learn of George's passing. In my first six years of teaching at Bigelow, George was a great colleague, mentor, and friend. Although it's been a while since we last spoke, I'll always consider him a friend. I have fond memories of him holding my toddler son Owen (now 13). I remember the joy it brought him to hear that Owen was becoming a budding drummer. Most of all, I remember George as a great conversationalist. Not only were his words intelligent and wise, but he intently listened when others spoke. I hope we get the chance to speak again. See you on the other side friend.
Ben McGraw
October 29, 2014
I was fortunate to spend time talking and working with George years ago about the challenges of anti-racist education. He was a wonderfully honest and genuine teacher, and especially so when talking about difficult topics. We never taught in the same school but it was always a pleasure to see George when we met at meetings.
Anne Carey
October 29, 2014
George was a warm and generous mentor to me as I began my tenure at Underwood. He offered sage advice, kindly and sparingly-- just enough to help me navigate unfamiliar waters without losing my way. I was fortunate to benefit from George's support and to enjoy his friendship. I am sad to hear of his passing. Please accept my condolences.
Kathleen Sullivan
October 29, 2014
Mr. Swift was one of my favorite teachers at Bigelow Middle School. He made science fun and enjoyable. I am extremely saddened to hear of his passing. My heart is with the family as well as the hundreds of students whose lives he helped make a difference.
October 29, 2014
George was a wonderfully caring, thoughtful and insightful teacher and person. I am so sorry to hear this news. May your good memories of shared times together sustain you during this difficult and sad time. -Andi Edson, fellow teacher at Underwood School
October 29, 2014
As the Inclusion Facilitator at Bigelow, I often had to look to George for creative ways to help students feel that they belonged and that they could achieve. George never saw them as any different than anyone else. He became their touchstone, their teacher and their example. George was an example to all of us in very many ways. I will miss his support, creativity, openness, generosity of spirit and friendship. He will never be gone from us. Sending love and prayers to all of you whom he loved so very much.
-Karen Popp
Bob Parlin
October 29, 2014
George is also remembered by the hundreds of colleagues he mentored and the thousands of students he taught. He was an extraordinarily generous and kind teacher whose legacy touches future generations. It was my honor to work with him and to get to know him through his work in the Newton Public Schools. He will be very missed.
October 29, 2014
I am saddened to hear of George's illness and passing. He was a wonderful, wise, and genuine person. I feel privileged to have had the opportunity of working with him at Underwood Elementary. Many blessings to his whole family.
With fondness,
Michele Bilodeau
Jenny Marcelin
October 29, 2014
May his soul rest in paradise
Michele Parker
October 29, 2014
So sorry to hear about George's passing. I saw his smiling face frequently in the halls at Bigelow-- although I did not work with him directly, George's presence positively affected me and all the people here. We were fellow rockhounds and I would venture into his class to admire the geological beauties! His spirit will always be here….
October 29, 2014
JANET SO SORRY TO HEAR OF YOUR BROTHERS PASSING WE WERE NEIGHBORS FOR SO MANY YEARS IN WALTHAM. HE GREW UP WITH MY BROTHERS JOEY AND GREGORY WHO HAVE BOTH PASSED ON.
FRANCES (RANDO) DUFROMONT CHELMSFORD MA.
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