Kelly Ann Swanson

God called Kelly Ann Swanson home on April 6, 2023. She was 62 years old.

Kelly was born to Gloria and Calvin Swanson on October 15th, 1960, in Bradford PA and was one of seven children. She is survived by her twin sister, Kerry Brownlowe (James) of Canton GA, and four older siblings, Susan Lohman (Jim) of Waldorf, MD, Kevin Swanson of Columbia, MD, Kimball Swanson (Suzanne Render) of Faber, VA, and Roxanne Johnson of Bowie, MD; as well as eleven nieces and nephews and one great-nephew. Kelly was predeceased by her younger sister, Jayne Cassella (James), of Canton, GA and both parents.

Kelly was a 1978 graduate of Bowie Senior High. She moved to San Diego, California in 1998 where she spent the second half of her adult life. She worked as an accountant mainly in the home building industry, ending her career with 12+ years at Community Housing Works in San Diego.

Kelly was a generous spirit, with a hearty laugh, and an unwavering faith in God and Jesus Christ. It is this faith that gave her the strength to accept herself and be of service to others. Kelly touched the hearts of people by showing up with unconditional support, serving as a coach, and a sounding board to those seeking counsel. She understood that honesty, self-reflection, and acceptance were the best medicine. Kelly cared deeply for people and did whatever she could to help them realize they had the power to heal and live their best life.

 After she was diagnosed with breast cancer, Kelly decided to surrender and accept God's plan for her rather than fight it. With the help of her family, Kelly promptly decided to leave California to return "home" to Bowie. Upon her arrival she was immediately surrounded by long-time friends and family. Her final months were full of love, connection, and celebrating her life with the people who cared about her most.

Her bravery in accepting her ultimate fate – to return "home" to heaven – was a comfort to those who stood by her side throughout her illness. Those who have been touched by Kelly's spirit will miss her dearly, and her legacy of faith, mentorship, friendship, and family will never be forgotten.

A Celebration of Life is planned for May 21st at 2:00 pm ET at Christian Community Presbyterian Church (CCPC) in Bowie Maryland.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests you can donate to the Jayne Cassella Foundation, where your donation will be earmarked for Promedica Hospice-Beltsville, Maryland location.