Douglas Swilley

Douglas Swilley obituary, St. Augustine, FL

Douglas Swilley

Douglas Swilley Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by St. John's Family Funeral Home & Crematory on Jun. 1, 2025.

Publish in a newspaper

Douglas Swilley, 92, passed away peacefully on the morning of Sunday, May 18, 2025. He was born on February 22, 1933, in Jacksonville, Florida, to parents Anthony Swilley and Edna Turner.
A devoted husband, father, and community pillar, Douglas was widely known for his generosity, his quiet strength, and his unwavering support for those in need. He spent most of his life in and around the St. Augustine area, where he built a home and legacy alongside his beloved wife, Redonia Swilley (deceased), and their son, Michael Swilley.
Douglas was best known as the proud owner of Swilley's Grocery Store on Riberia Street, where his friendly demeanor, hard work, and skill as a butcher made him a beloved figure in the neighborhood. His store was more than a business-it was a gathering place for generations of families who came not just for groceries, but for advice, stories, and friendship.
Over the years, Douglas also operated several other small businesses throughout the city, always with the same commitment to honesty, service, and community. Even after retiring, his love for people and the land kept him active, running a small produce stand on South Holmes Boulevard. Locals knew they could count on Douglas not only for fresh fruits and vegetables but also for a warm smile and a kind word.
Details regarding memorial services will be announced by the family at a later date.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign Douglas Swilley's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

St. John's Family Funeral Home & Crematory

385 SR 207, Saint Augustine, FL 32084

Make a Donation
in Douglas Swilley's name

How to support Douglas's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Douglas Swilley's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Douglas Swilley's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?