Jack Swanger

Jack J. Swanger, a lifelong resident of Waynesville, passed away peacefully on May 24, 2024. Jack was born April 2, 1936, in Haywood County to the late Roy and Malinda Swanger. In addition to his parents, Jack was preceded in death by his sister Vivian Moore and brothers Carrol and Amon Swanger. 

Jack was a kind, devoted and loving husband of 62 years to Elizabeth “Pat” Swanger who preceded him in death on January 29, 2022. She was the love of his life and even after her death, he visited her weekly at Garrett-Hillcrest to share about their family. 

Jack was a 1954 graduate of Waynesville Township High School. Jack entered the US Air Force on June 13, 1954. After serving his country, he returned to Waynesville, attended Western Carolina University, and married Pat in 1960. Jack spent his career of 38+ years at Champion International Paper Company. 

Jack was a wonderful father to his son Charles and daughter-in-law Susanne of Asheville; the best Papaw to Brooke and Dr. Patrick Perkins of Raleigh; and the proudest Great Papaw to Van Thurmond Perkins. He was an animal lover like Pat, having a special place in his heart for cats in particular. Jack loved his family, neighbors, and friends. 

Jack was a shining light with the biggest genuine smile. He loved to joke and was always ready to share a story and a laugh with friends and family. Jack looked forward to seeing his Bogarts’ buddies on Thursdays, his breakfast pals on Saturdays and his church family on Sundays. 

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday May 29 in the chapel of Garrett-Hillcrest Memorial Park Mausoleum with Reverend Steve Muzio officiating. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation for Hazelwood Presbyterian Church, PO Box 67 Hazelwood, NC 28738 or Sarge’s Animal Rescue Foundation, PO Box 854, Waynesville, NC 28786.