Gary Francis Swart

Gary Francis Swart, cherished husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2025, at his home in Castle Hayne, North Carolina. Born on November 8, 1944, in Wilmington, North Carolina, Gary lived 80 years filled with love, humor, hard work, and community service.

Raised in the close-knit neighborhood of Swartville in Castle Hayne, Gary held a deep appreciation for his Dutch heritage. He especially admired the remarkable journey his paternal grandparents made in 1912, when they immigrated from Holland to the Castle Hayne area with 8 children. His pride in this lineage was evident throughout his life as he shared those stories, as well as through the nickname "Dutch" in his early years.

After graduating from New Hanover High School, he completed computer technology courses. Gary worked in the computer field for many years, including textile mills in Gastonia and Spartanburg, SC. Eventually, he returned to Swartville, where he opened a landscaping business and later began a career in industrial sales, including owning Cape Fear Supply Co., until his retirement.

An avid sports fan, he supported teams such as the Washington Redskinsand Carolina Panthers. In earlier years he played baseball for the church's baseball team and enjoyed hunting, mostly the fellowship. He loved to play cards and travel with his family. He also delighted in preparing breakfast plus orange rolls and shrimperoos for friends and family

As a young man, he served honorably in the US Army Reserves. A member of Bethany Presbyterian Church, Gary served numerous roles, including deacon, and enjoyed participating in the Men's Breakfast Fellowship. He demonstrated commitment to service beyond the church, first as a member of the Jaycees and later the Exchange Club. He also looked forward to the many friendships resulting from Whitey's Breakfast Club. For many years, he was active in Rip Current Education after the death of their daughter, Crystal.

Gary Swart's life was a testament to hard work, loyalty, and love. As the struggles related to diabetes increased, so did his amazing wit. This surprised people once in a restaurant line and often in a doctor's lobby, reflected in the nickname "trouble" that he happily owned. Despite his medical hurdles, he typically had an upbeat attitude and was glad laughter often followed him. He will be remembered for his deep faith and unwavering dedication to family and community.

Preceded in death by his parents, Gerrit and Ruth Burton Swart, his beloved daughter Crystal Swart, and brother Paul Swart, Gary leaves behind a legacy of love and resilience. He is survived by his devoted wife of 54 years, JoAnn McCachern Swart, his loving daughter Marina Swart, and his brother-in-law, Mac McCachern, as well as his siblings Ernie Swart (Mania), David Swart (Hedy), Jimmy Swart, Betty Peterson, and Beth Clark (Mike) and sister-in-law, Rose Swart. He will also be missed by friends, by over 30 cousins who grew up in Swartville and by more relatives within the Swart and McCachern families.

A service to celebrate Gary's life will be held at Bethany Presbyterian Church with visitation at 1 pm, followed by the 2 pm service on Saturday, September 6, 2025. Casual attire is encouraged.

Consider a memorial gift in Gary's name to Bethany Presbyterian Church or to Breakthrough Type 1 Diabetes (Type 1 Diabetes, formerly Breakthrough Type 1 Diabetes (Formerly JDRF))

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Wilmington Funeral & Cremation 1535 S. 41st Street Wilmington, NC 28403 910-791-9099.