Rita M. Swain

Rita M. Swain obituary, Abbottstown, PA

Rita M. Swain

Rita Swain Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Murphy-Beck Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Inc. - McSherrystown on Feb. 20, 2026.
Rita Margaret (Wierman) Swain, of Abbottstown, PA, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 9, 2026, at UPMC Hospital in Hanover, PA. Born on February 21, 1928, in McSherrystown, she was the daughter of the late Robert J. Wierman Sr. and Grace M. (Hemler) Wierman.

A proud 1945 graduate of Delone Catholic High School, Rita attained a four-year scholarship at Jacobs Pillow University of Dance in Lee, MA. She later taught in the Preparatory Dance Department of the Peabody Institute in Baltimore, MD, alongside her mentor Carol Lynn.

In 1955, following her marriage to Bruce V. Swain, Rita embraced equestrian pursuits through the riding program at the Baltimore County Humane Society and eventually became an instructor there. In 1975, she returned to Abbottstown and established Meadowlark Farm, where she shared her love of horsemanship with many students. Rita also worked in administration at ESAB Welding and Cutting Products until retiring from both roles in 2000. She continued to stay active by working part-time at the Brethren Home in Cross Keys Village until 2012.

Rita treasured her home life filled with family, friends, and many cherished pets. In her final years, she enjoyed attending Golden Visions Adult Day Services in Hanover, where she was blessed with new friendships and memories.

She is survived by her daughter Mary Camarillo and husband Will of Memphis, TN; granddaughter Brandy Swain of Abbottstown, PA; special niece Rita Wilson and husband Doug of Lancaster, PA; as well as several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Bruce V. Swain and siblings Robert J. Wierman Jr., Virginia Williams, and Richard A. Wierman.

Following cremation, burial will be held at the convenience of the family under the care of Murphy-Beck Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to Immaculate Heart of Mary Church (6084 West Canal Rd., Abbottstown, PA 17301), Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church (26 N. Third St., McSherrystown, PA 17344), or Adams County SPCA (11 Goldenville Rd., Gettysburg, PA 17325).

Kindly share condolences and memories at www.beckfunerals.com

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

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