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William “Bill” Robert Swope, 86, departed this earth for his heavenly home on December 7, 2014.
He was born May 14, 1928 in Bessemer, Alabama, a son of the late George Sylvester Swope and Katherine Broadhead Swope of Bessemer, Ala. In 1950, he married the love of his life, the late Lena Jeanette Cacioppo – “his Lee” — and they enjoyed a blessed union of 62 years. They began their married life in Alabama, and later lived in California, Pennsylvania and South Carolina before moving to Statesville, N.C. in 2010. Bill was a devoted father to five daughters to whom he leaves countless precious memories filled with laughter, love and butterfly kisses.
Bill served his country in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. He was a skilled machinist before pursuing a career in the restaurant industry. Prior to his retirement, he and his wife operated restaurants in Bessemer, Ala. and Rock Hill, S.C. He loved his family, never met a stranger, and was a world-class master of corny jokes. Other things he loved: his wife’s spaghetti and meatballs, gospel music, family trips to the mountains and beach, the Alabama Crimson Tide, and Jesus.
William “Bill” Robert Swope
Bill is survived by his daughters, Katherine (Ken) Beebe of Charlotte, N.C.; Libby (Michele Pridgen) Wiersema of Florence, S.C.; Janet Lee Swope of Alabama; Jeanine Swope of Statesville, N.C.; Lisa Anne Swope of Statesville, N.C.; 12 beloved grandchildren and eight cherished great-grandchildren.
He is also survived by a special brother-in-law, Frank (Angie) Cacioppo of Helena, Ala.; a special sister-in-law, Janet (Ron) Tabbone of San Antonio, Texas; “adopted sons,” Keith Costello of Columbia, S.C., Jason Martin of Statesville, N.C., Dale Wiersema of Florence, S.C., and a host of loving nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife and parents, he was predeceased by a sister, Jane LeFevre, and two brothers, George S. Swope and James M. Swope.
A service is planned for 3 p.m. on Saturday, December 13, 2014 at Landmark Church of God, 2200 E. Broad St., Statesville, NC. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Gordon Hospice House, 2347 Simonton Road, Statesville, N.C. 28625.
Carolina Cremation of Salisbury and Charlotte is assisting the Swope family. Online condolences may be made at www.carolinacremation.com.
Chris Tate says
I send my deepest condolences to my cousins for the loss of their father, my Uncle Bill. I believe it’s the end of an era with the passing of Uncle Bill. He was the last of the Swope clan. I like to think that he, Aunt Lee, and my Mom, Jane LeFevre, are up in heaven laughing, joking, and having a good time as they always did together. I love you Uncle Bill and send my love to all my cousins during this very hard time.
Love,
Chris Tate
Idyllwild, California
Michele Pridgen says
My Poppy! I have been truly blessed to have had you in my life these past 16 years. You were an amazing gentleman and an exceptional example of living pure. Thank you for all the laughter and adventurous day trips/ family vacations. You will be missed, and your memory will always reside in my heart. I have great peace & comfort in knowing that you are no longer suffering and that you are reunited with Nonni and other family members!
Love Always,
Michele
Janet Carlee says
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MY PRECIOUS FATHER! You never liked anyone to make a fuss over you. you had so many wonderful qualities and like mother, you could read people so well. I know but the last several years had been very difficult for you. For many reasons, but mostly because the love of your life was in pain, physically and emotionally. Now both of your pain is a thing of the past. And we must go on. To say that “I miss you” are simply words to me right now, every fiber of my being aches to see you, to speak to you, and to hold you once more. No one could have ever asked for a better father. I’ll miss you until the day that I die and I pray that if there is another side that you’ll be there and my gorgeous mother will be by your side.