Ruby R Swigert

Ruby Rina Seconda Piva Swigert, 96, of Challis, Idaho passed away on September 6, 2025 in Salmon, Idaho. Ruby was born September 11, 1928 in Challis, Idaho to Pietro Pete and Louisa Gina Piva. She was the fifth child born to Italian Immigrant parents.

Ruby's parents taught their children to love America. Her Parents learned to read, write and speak English on their own. They came here with nothing and bought the family ranch with a handshake and a one dollar down payment. Honest, hardworking people raising their six children with patriotism, hard work and honest values.

She married Richard Charles Swigert on November 28, 1957 and to this union three children were born: Richard (Stretch), Stewart and Allicyn. They were raised along with Ruby's children Scot and Rina Sue Tappan from a previous marriage to Stanley Tappan. Richard passed away November 21, 1970.

Ruby made eight trips during her lifetime to her parent's home country of Italy. Several of her trips had at least one of her children, grandchildren or other family member to accompany her.

She joined the American Legion Auxiliary in 1947 and has served in every capacity in unit, district, department and national levels throughout her more than 70 years of membership.

Ruby's steadfast dedication as a member and volunteer at the HUB since 1976 have been an inspiration to many. The original building was Ruby's father's grocery store and she was building a new grocery store, so the opportunity for the HUB was born. It has changed locations several times and has seen many eager volunteers and supporters over the years and continues to make Challis a better place to live for the whole community.

Ruby is survived by her children: Richard (Carol) Swigert of Zebulon, North Carolina, Allicyn (Jack) Latimer of Challis, Idaho; Kevin (Jennifer) Swigert of Fairfield, Idaho; grandchildren: Anthony, Chelsey, Sadie & Rina Tappan, Gina & Daniel Duke, Caroline Carter, Oliver & Courtney Landis, Stephanie & Willie Elam, Drew & Kristina Latimer; 17 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchild; one sister: Margaret Stenersen of Rocklin, California and many nieces, nephews & cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Pete and Louisa Piva; husband Richard Swigert; sons Scot Tappan and Stewart Swigert; daughter Rina Sue Tappan; three brothers: Marion Piva, Piero Piva, Bruno Piva and sister Lena Bradshaw.

Services will be held September 26th at 3:00 pm at the Challis Community Church. At Ruby's request a Wake (pizza party) will be held at her home following the service.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to a charity of your choice or to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Ruby's favorite or the Philip Kirk American Legion Auxiliary.

Arrangements by Jones & Casey Funeral Home of Challis.