Stephen Earl Swain

Stephen Earl (Steve) Swain of Jacksonville, FL passed away on May 4, 2026, in Franklin, NC following a lengthy illness. A memorial service will be held at Mathews Funeral Home, Albany, GA, Saturday morning May 9, at 11:00 with Pastor Chuck Smith officiating. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 10:00 to 11:00.

Steve was born in Tallahassee, FL on November 3, 1952 to Hubert and Eunice Swain. He was the third born of six siblings. He grew up in Fitzgerald, GA, graduating from Mitchell County High School in Camilla, GA. Following graduation, he began his career in construction, working alongside his dad in Calhoun, GA. He had a successful 30+ year career, retiring as Executive Vice President of Indian River Industrial Contractors in 2011.

Steve was very involved with youth athletics, not only coaching, but also serving as president of the Mandarin Athletic Association for over 15 years. He was an avid golfer and enjoyed playing on courses throughout FL, GA, and NC with his son, Alan, and friends. He never met a stranger and was known for his ability to immediately welcome and interact with any newcomer to his circle of friends. He was noted for his wit, admired for his generosity and caring, and respected for his service as a volunteer to the young athletes of Jacksonville as well as his commitment to his profession.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Hubert and Eunice Swain, and two brothers, Roy and Danny Swain. He is survived by his wife, Janice Willis Swain, his son, Stephen Alan Swain (Tayyaba) of Sugar Hill, GA; stepchildren, Megan Lokey (Chris) of Griffin, GA, Chloe Neely (Todd) of Pittsburgh, PA, Chase McKinnon of Cartersville, GA; grandchildren, Sofia Swain, Adam Swain, Noah Swain, Jamie Neely, Sara Lokey, Shelby Lokey, Loreli McKinnon, and Neva McKinnon; siblings, Mary Lee Moore (Ron) of Elijay, GA, Rick Swain (Gail) of Blue Ridge, GA, and Joey Swain (Julie) of Albany, GA. He also leaves several nieces and nephews to cherish his memory.

Steve was the official planner, organizer, and director of all celebrations and gatherings of family and friends. His love and demonstrations of that love knew no bounds. We are left with wonderful memories.