Howard Swinton

Howard Swinton was born in Kingstree, SC, on July 19, 1943, to the late David & Eliza Swinton. Howard was surrounded by his beloved family when he gained his wings on Thursday, April 27, 2023, at Allegra Nursing & Rehabilitation in Jackson, MI. Howard Swinton was a dedicated, lifelong member of Leggett Chapel AME Zion Church and served on the trustee board, was in the choir, and a member of the Albion Community Male Chorus.

In 1955, the Swinton family moved from South Carolina to Albion, MI, where he enrolled in Albion Public Schools. At the age of 19, Howard enlisted in the Army and often told stories about the many places he traveled in the U.S and overseas. Howard, who was an avid hunter, was able to earn the "expert" rifle badge because of his experience hunting as a youngster. After the Army, Howard spent a lot of time in Buffalo, New York and Washington D.C. with friends and family and held fond memories of those times until his passing.

Howard made quite a name for himself in the Albion Community, known to many by his nickname “Buck.” He was a mentor, protector, and nurturer to many within the community, always making time to check on his elders. Howard also ran his own lawn care business, delivered Meals on Wheels, worked with Mr. Harry Bonner Sr. at Minority Program Services as a Youth Development Specialist, and the late Mr. Dick Weatherford at A-Z Sweeper Shop. Howard also coached a local softball team in the early 80’s, that was heavily supported by the Albion community.

Howard was employed by Brooks Foundry and Hayes-Albion Malleable division. He spent many years at the General Motors Fisher Body Plant in Lansing, MI, where he retired. He enjoyed running, cooking, fishing, and was well known for his BBQ and sauce, which had a South Carolina twang. Howard would cook anything including squirrels, rabbit, deer, turtle, and raccoon. You name it, he cooked it!

Howard leaves to cherish his memories, wife: Linda Faye Swinton; daughters: Djuana L. Dismuke of Wayne, MI, Sherika Motley of Milwaukee, WI and goddaughter/niece, Portia (Marcus) Patrick of Battle Creek, MI; sons: Shaftone (Melissa) Dunklin of Jackson, MI and David (LaTasha) Swinton of Albion, MI; sisters: Daisy (Robert) Johnson of Prichard, AL, Ruth Annie Swinton and Emma Jane Swinton both of Lansing, MI; brothers: Rolyn Swinton and Clifton Swinton both of Battle Creek, MI; 18 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren; one surviving aunt, Martha Newell of Buffalo, NY, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and special lifelong friends.

Howard joins those who preceded him in death, parents: David & Eliza Swinton; brother: Sammie Swinton; sons: Richard Nadar Swinton, Chevi Maurice Tabb, and Melvin “Jody" Motley.

Services to celebrate Howard’s Life will be held on Friday, May 5, 2023 beginning with family hour at 11AM until the time of service at 12PM at Grace Temple COGIC, 711 Grace St., Albion, MI. Interment with Military Honors will take place in Albion Memory Gardens immediately following.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.kevintiddfuneralhome.com for the Swinton family.