Elbert Ted McSwain

SHELBY- Elbert Ted McSwain, affectionately known as Ted, passed away peacefully on November 30, 2025, in Cleveland County, North Carolina, at the age of 72. Born on July 10, 1953, in Cleveland County, Ted spent his entire life in the community he loved.

Ted was a man who found joy in the simple pleasures of life. After dedicating over 30 years of his professional career as a custodian at Burns High School, he retired with the respect and admiration of colleagues and students alike. Even in retirement, Ted's strong work ethic led him to continue serving his community by working part-time at the county landfill site in Polkville.

Ted's interests were as diverse as they were heartfelt. He had a passion for watching classic television shows like "Gunsmoke" and "Perry Mason," which filled his home with laughter and nostalgia. Ted loved working on cars and reminiscing about his days of drag racing in his youth.

More than anything, Ted was a devoted family man. He was a loving husband to his wife, Lynn McSwain, with whom he shared 41 wonderful years. He was a proud father to his sons, Michael McSwain and wife Danielle, and Jimmy McSwain. Ted's legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren, Logan McSwain and Carly McSwain, who will remember him fondly for his kindness and warmth.

Ted was preceded in death by his parents, Elbert Keslar McSwain and Ethel Mozelle McSwain, and his sister, Teala McSwain. He leaves behind many who will miss him dearly, including his cousin Alan Sparks and wife Kathe, along with a host of friends who knew him as a good friend and an honest man who never made a fuss about anything.

Family and friends are invited to gather at 1:00PM Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at Zion Baptist Church in the Family Life Center, to share memories and support one another. A funeral service to celebrate Ted's life will follow at 2:00 PM on in the Family Life Center, with Dr. Jim McConnell officiating. Following the service, Ted will be laid to rest in the church cemetery, where he will join those who have gone before him.

Ted McSwain's life was a testament to humility, dedication, and love. To honor his memory donations can be made to Hospice of Cleveland County.  His memory will live on in the stories shared by those whose lives he touched. 

Services are entrusted to Clay-Barnette Funeral Home & Aquamation Center www.claybarnette.com