Willie Ann Swain

Mrs. Willie Ann McKenzie Swain was born in Talladega, Alabama on January 12, 1959 to the union of Lovell Chatman, Sr. and Elizabeth McKenzie Chatman. From her earliest days, Mrs. Swain embodied a spirit of faith, love, and steadfast devotion to Christ. She was an active member of Sycamore Missionary Baptist Church, where her faith flourished, guiding her through life's journey. Educated within the Talladega County School System, she completed her education at Lincoln High School, setting the stage for a career defined by dedication and service. For many years, Mrs. Swain served as a custodian with the Talladega City Board of Education, bringing warmth and care into the lives of countless students and colleagues before retiring. United in love, Mrs. Swain found her soulmate in Mr. John Swain, with whom she shared a bond that only deepened over the years. Together they shared the blessing of a daughter, Tressia. Her most lovely relationship that came only second to the love of God is the relationship that was shared with her husband, whom she loved dearly. The love she had for her husband and daughter knew no bounds, and her grandchildren were the light of her life, as she showered them with love and affection. Affectionately known as "Ann," she was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and sister. Her kitchen was a haven of warmth, filled with the aromas of home-cooked meals as she tended to her family and nurtured her beautiful flowers. An avid shopper and meticulous cleaner, Ann was driven by a passion for caring - not only for her home but for those around her. Family gatherings, filled with laughter, stories, and her heartfelt wisdom, were a testament to her generous spirit. As a lover of gospel music and scripture, she often found joy in spending quiet moments reading her Bible or watching her favorite shows. As we gather to honor her legacy, we recognize that Mrs. Swain touched the souls of all who crossed her path. Heaven has truly gained an angel, and her gentle soul will be missed immensely. On Sunday afternoon, August 17, 2025, Mrs. Willie Ann McKenzie Swain calmly made her transition from her beautiful 66-year earthly life journey to her new eternal heavenly home when she answered the Master's call while in the care of University of Alabama Hospital in Birmingham, Alabama. As she walked through those pearly gates, she was welcomed to her new home by her parents, Mr. Lovell Chatman, Sr. and Elizabeth Chatman, sister, Fannie Gooden, and sisters-in-law, Shirley Swain and Sherry Swain. As we commemorate her life, let us celebrate the everlasting love she shared and the profound impact she made during her 66 years. She leaves to cherish many warm and loving memories, a devoted husband, John Swain; one daughter, Tressia Ragland (Lewis) Reed; two grandchildren, Zackey Ragland and Whitney Ragland; five brothers, William Chatman, Steven Chatman, Lovell (Vicky) Chatman, Jr., and Rex Chatman; sisters, Janet (Cecil) Miller, Linda (Pastor Brian) Miller, and Rose Turner; brother-in-law, Lavon (Monique) Swain; sisters-in-law, Deborah (Timothy Kendrick) Swain, Tina Swain, and Robin Swain; niece, Sekana Peoples; and a host of other nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. In her gentle wisdom, let us find solace, and in her enduring love, let us find strength. Mrs. Swain's life is a melody that will echo through the hearts she has touched, a harmonious reminder of love, faith, and family.May her spirit rest in peace, and may her memory be cherished in the hearts of all who had the pleasure of knowing her.