Barry Thomas Swinney

Barry Swinney, 76, of Neches, Texas, passed away unexpectedly on December 19th at his home with his beloved animals by his side.
Born on July 17, 1949, in Saipan on a Naval ship to Thomas Wiley and Mary Frances Swinney, Barry grew up in Longview, Texas. He became a Marine at 17 years old and went on to serve in combat in Vietnam as a communications officer. Barry graduated with a Bachelor's in Sociology from the University of Texas and built a successful career as a Vice President of an oil and gas company, where he eventually retired.
He was known by all for his love of animals of all kinds. He rehabilitated everything from day-old deer to opossums, martins, flying squirrels, and hummingbirds. He devoted his life to raising all the creatures that resided on his "Paradise Compound."
Barry was a father, grandfather, brother, uncle, nephew, and friend. He spent his happiest moments fishing on his lake, watching his birds, and spending time with his friends, family, and dogs. He will be remembered for his eccentric personality, his love for all things antique, his inappropriate jokes, his infectious laugh, and his true passion for all God's creatures.
Barry is survived by his children, Shawn Swinney and wife Allissa, and Laci Harrelson and husband David; and his grandchildren, Dillon Swinney, Emilee Swinney, and Kennedy Tallent. He also leaves behind his sister, Debbie Martin; his nephew, Jonathan Martin; and his uncle, Jackie Lacy and wife Diane.
Service Information:
A memorial of Barry's life will be held on January 19th at 10:00 am at Herrington / Land of Memory Funeral Home in Palestine, TX. Burial will follow at 1:00 pm at Mason Cemetery in Arp, TX.