Tom Swift

Thomas Lee "Tom" Swift, age 60, a lifelong resident of Alma, Illinois, passed away suddenly at his home on Sunday, January 5, 2025.
Tom was born the youngest son of Ron and Sue Swift of Alma on December 15, 1964. Tom was the youngest of his siblings, Marsha Swift,Ronda Yates, and Russell Swift all of Alma.
He married the love of his life, Gloria (Baylis), on June 17, 1995. They have one daughter, Elizabeth Swift of Virden, Illinois. Tom was a member of the Kinmundy Christian Church.
Tom was a graduate of Kinmundy-Alma High School in 1982. He will be remembered as an entrepreneur dating back to the late 80's. He owned and operated Kinmundy Laundry Service until he took over and operated his parents' business, Swift Auction Service. Tom volunteered his auctioneering talents to communities and organizations to help raise money for various charities. Tom is also remembered for his many years as the manager at Swifty's Gas Station in Salem. Over the last decade, Tom and Gloria owned and operated The Weenie Wagon concession stand in Alma, Illinois. Serving people was a known passion of his.
Tom joined Kinmundy Lodge #398 on January 17, 1986, and was raised as a Master Mason on February 28, 1986. He remained a Master Mason until his death. During his years, he was active in many Masonic activities, while always promoting the Mason's and their charities. Tom was also an honorary member of the Marion Lodge #130 in Salem.
Tom served as a Trustee on the Alma Village Board for over 20 years. Before being elected to the board, Tom served the Village of Alma by operating and maintaining the water system. Tom also served as a Democratic Precinct Committeeman. He was a member of Kinmundy-Alma Fire and EMS for many years in his youth.
Survivors include: His wife, Gloria, daughter Elizabeth (Jeremy Stanberry), siblings: Marsha Swift, Ronda Yates, and Russell (Bobbi) Swift, special niece and nephew he raised: Mike (Kasey) Swift and Kim (Thad Genaust) Thomas, many nieces, nephews, great nieces and one great nephew.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents; brother-in-law: Randy Yates.
Funeral services to celebrate Tom's life will be held at 4:00 pm, Saturday, January 18, 2025, at the Kinmundy Christian Church in Kinmundy with Claude Howell officiating. Following the service cremation rites will be accorded. A visitation will be held on Saturday afternoon at the church from 1:30 to 4:00 pm. Masonic Rites service will be held at 4:00 pm Saturday followed by funeral services. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you direct memorials to McGriff Funeral Home to assist with final expenses.
The McGriff Funeral Home in Kinmundy is honored to be entrusted with the family's care and arrangements. To sign the guestbook online or share a memory or story of Tom, please visit www.mcgriffandtriplettfh.com.
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