Carole D. Swansbra

Carole "Kitty" Swansbra, age 82, of O'Hara Township, died on September 15, 2025. Born November 22, 1942, in Pittsburgh, PA, she was the daughter of the late Herbert and Dorothy Kern and the beloved wife of Darrell Lloyd Swansbra of 37 years. A member of The Way International, Carole found solace and strength in prayer and services. Carole's artistic talents were many, she enjoyed drying and designing exquisite flower arrangements and painting. Carole had an eye for fashion, beautiful clothes, jewelry and antiques. Music was an important part of Carole's life, her talent for the piano earned her the affectionate nickname "Kitty on the Keys" during her early years in Washington, DC in the 1960s. She found joy in the simple pleasure of going to the movies or playing Pinochle with her family. Over the years, she had much love for her Siamese cats; they were companions that brought her comfort. Carole is survived by her children, Kimberly Pettit Kiang and Brian Deloss Pettit; five grandchildren; siblings, Herbert (Rose) Kern and Kenneth (Dodie) Kern, sister-in-law, Judy; many nieces and nephews; and friend and caregiver, Richard Peterson. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her daughter, Tracy Elizabeth Pettit and her brother, Richard Kern. Visitation will be held on Monday, September 22, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. until the time of funeral service at 12:30 p.m. at Thomas M. Smith Funeral Home & Crematory Ltd; 930 Center Avenue Blawnox, PA, 15238. Burial will follow in St. Mary Cemetery, Lawrenceville.