Ava H. Swilley

Born December 16, 1913, in Wesson, Arkansas, she was the daughter of Robert C. and Jennie Moore Hudson. Mrs. Swilley began her career working at Lion Oil Corporation until she married Waymon Swilley at which time she was dismissed from her job as was customary at that time when a woman married. She later became the educational secretary at First Baptist Church until Waymon was transferred by Monsanto to Luling, Louisiana. While in Luling she was also employed by Monsanto, along with being active in First Baptist Church there as treasurer and church secretary, among other activities. Upon returning to El Dorado in 1975 after Waymon’s retirement, they again became active in First Baptist Church.

Preceding her in death along with her parents were her husband, Waymon C. Swilley; sons Walter Robert “Bob” Swilley and Waymon Jack Swilley and a brother, Harry R. Hudson.

Survivors include a daughter, Dr. Sue Swilley and a special friend, Dr. Peggy Hypes both of New Market, Tennessee. Also surviving are grandsons, Curtis Swilley and Mikel Swilley (Amy) all of Texas and four great-grandchildren, Jami Swilley, Kiefer Swilley, Landon Swilley and Morgan Swilley.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, October 18, 2018, at First Baptist Church with Dr. Lynn Worthen and Rev. Brian Trostle officiating with music provided by Linda Whatley. Interment will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery under the direction of Young’s Funeral Directors.

Visitation for friends and family will be from 1:00 p.m. until service time at 2:00 Thursday at First Baptist Church.

Special thanks and appreciation are extended to Karin Rainwater, Nancy Arn, Charlotte Watson, Sarah Merkel, George McWilliams and Mary Jo Crosley along with the staff of Timberlane Health and Rehabilitation Center for the care, love, and concerns given to Mrs. Swilley.

Memorials may be made to the Swilley-Hudson Music Scholarship Fund , Carson-Newman University, Russell Avenue, Jefferson City, TN 37760 or to First Baptist Church, 200 W. Main, El Dorado, AR 71730.

An online registry will be available at www.youngsfuneralhome.com.