Lloyd Walter Swain

Lloyd Walter Swain

April 28, 1938 – November 19, 2025

Lloyd Walter Swain, 87, of Vernal, Utah, returned home to his Heavenly Father on November 19, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. His passing was peaceful, with all of his children and their spouses gathered at his side—just as he would have wanted.

Born April 28, 1938, in Vernal to Marian Wesley (Hap) and Wanda Collier Swain, Lloyd was the oldest of three children: Lloyd, Patricia, and Karl. After his parents later divorced, his mother married Ben Richards, and Lloyd grew up in a large blended family with step-siblings and half-siblings whom he cared for deeply. His early years taught him resilience, responsibility, and the value of hard work—principles he carried throughout his life.

On October 18, 1956, Lloyd married the love of his life, Shela Darcy Kendall, in the Salt Lake Temple. Their partnership was one of devotion and quiet strength. Together they raised four children: Darcy (Brent) Hales, Lisa (Paul) Hacking, Mikel (Camille) Swain, and Morgan (Sherice) Swain. Lloyd’s greatest joy came from being a husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was blessed with 12 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren, all of whom he dearly loved.

A builder in every sense of the word, Lloyd loved working with his hands. He took great pride in constructing homes, sawmills, and countless projects that strengthened his family and community. Known for his unwavering work ethic—steady, dependable, and determined—Lloyd was the person everyone trusted to build, repair, or improve whatever needed doing.

He dedicated many years to public and church service, including serving as a Uintah County Commissioner, bishop, high council member, and in numerous other callings within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He led with humility, compassion, and a sincere desire to serve others.

Though he wasn’t fond of four-wheeling, he gladly went along because it made Shela happy—a simple act that reflected the depth of his love. Lloyd preferred staying close to home, surrounded by the familiar beauty of the valley he grew up in. He believed the best things in life were found in family, faith, and the land he cherished.

Lloyd is survived by his beloved wife Shela; his four children and their spouses; 12 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; his brother Karl Swain; one stepbrother; one stepsister; three half-brothers; and one half-sister. He is preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Pat Evans; three great-grandchildren; and other dear family members.

Funeral Services will be held Tuesday, November 25, 2025 at 11 am at the Vernal 1st Ward Chapel (475 W 100 S) with viewings Monday from 6:00- 8:00 PM at the Mortuary, and Tuesday 1 hour prior to services at the Chapel. Burial will be in the Rock Point Cemetery.

Lloyd will be remembered for his steadfast faith, strong hands, soft heart, and the lasting legacy he built—both in the structures he created and in the lives he touched.