Julia Claire Swanner

Julia Claire Swanner, 71, of Jonesboro, departed this life on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at her home. She was born on January 14, 1954, in Natchitoches, Louisiana, to the late William and Marsha LaCaze. Julia moved to Jonesboro from Natchitoches at the age of sixteen, where she made her home and raised her family. She was of the Catholic faith.

Julia enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren, who were her greatest joy. She loved listening to country music, going to yard sales, working around the house, and keeping her yard clean and beautiful.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Donald Swanner Sr.; granddaughter, Cameron Swanner; three brothers, Robert LaCaze, Mike LaCaze, and Jessie LaCaze; two sisters, Peggy Gongre and Louise George; her maternal grandmother, Noelie Cockfield; and one of her “kids she helped care for,” Elizabeth Smith, who held a very special place in her heart.

She is survived by two sons, Buster Swanner of Harrisburg and Jeffrey Swanner (Angela) of Jonesboro; one daughter, Brandy Dewitt (Aaron) of Trumann; two brothers, Wallace LaCaze (Lynn) and Joe LaCaze (Charlotte), both of Natchitoches, Louisiana; six grandchildren, Luke Swanner, Colten Swanner, Michael Dewitt, KeShawn Dewitt, Eva Dewitt, and Tobias Dewitt; sisters-in-law, Teri-Sue Roberts, Hope Phillips, and Sandra Swanner; as well as several nieces, nephews, and a host of extended family and lifelong friends. Julia also shared a special bond with her extended family, Jonathan Smith, Stephen Smith, and Caroline Borgstadt.

Visitation will be held Monday, October 27, 2025, at Emerson Memorial Chapel beginning at 9:00 a.m., with funeral services following at 10:00 a.m. Burial will take place afterward at Pine Log Cemetery. Lindley Smith will officiate the service.

Active pallbearers will include Buster Swanner, Jeffrey Swanner, Colten Swanner, Luke Swanner, Aaron Dewitt, and KeShawn Dewitt. Honorary pallbearers will be Jonathan Smith, Stephen Smith, and Lindley Smith.