Raymond Swafford

On December 31, 2025, Raymond Louis Swafford was called home to be with his Lord and Savior at the age of 83. He was born March 30, 1942 in Bradley County to John T. and Loetta Masengill Swafford.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John T. and Loetta Masengill Swafford; his brothers: Billy, Charles, Virgil, Odell, Clifford, and Dewitt Swafford and his sister, Betty Fern Swafford; granddaughter, Amber Hyberger. He was also preceded in death by his first wife, Clara McAlister, and his second wife, Brenda Hardy.

Raymond attended Maroon Grammar School and graduated from Bradley Central High School in 1960. Raymond was a star athlete at Bradley. He played football and basketball, but excelled in baseball. He was scouted by professional baseball teams, but chose to take a scholarship at Tennessee Wesleyan. Unfortunately, he had a serious health crisis which ended his baseball career. After recovery he was able to play softball with some of the best local teams.

Raymond was a humble and loving man who provided for his family and never failed to show love to them. He was well known and loved by many people in the community. Raymond worked at several jobs before being elected to be the Bradley County Register of Deeds. He served three terms as Register. One of the themes he used when running for local office was "Everyone loves Raymond".

Raymond loved to fish. He had a large circle of fishing friends and made trips around the country with them. He was never happier than when he was on the water.

Raymond's Christian faith and fellowship was one of the most important things in his life. If you were with him any amount of time, he would let you know how much he loved Jesus. He said the most important decision he made was to accept the Lord Jesus as his personal Savior. He said the three most important things you leave behind are your witness, your testimony, and your example.

Raymond leaves behind to cherish his memory, his children, Brian and Denisa; great granddaughter, Emily; his precious brothers, Harold (Ann) Swafford, Daniel (Deborah) Swafford; also many nieces and nephews. Family meant everything to him.

He was dearly loved and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. There will be a Celebration of Life on Sunday January 4, 2026, from 1:00-3:00 pm at Echoes of Mercy Baptist Church. A funeral service will follow at 3:00 pm with Pastor Daniel White officiating. He will be laid to rest at Mount Carmel Baptist Church Cemetery.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to Pastor Daniel White, his wife Molly, and the entire congregation of Echoes of Mercy Baptist Church.