Rev. Henry W. Swinney

Henry William Swinney was called to his heavenly home on Oct. 7, 2014. Henry was born Aug. 15, 1920 in Annona, Texas to Claude Cyrus and Mamie Dove. He was preceded in death by his wife Grace Marie Swinney of 65 years and 6 of his siblings. He is survived by his sister, Ruby of New York; and sons, Bill and Tommy and their wives and families.

Henry grew up around Rush Springs, OK to parents who were share croppers, spending time growing watermelons, fishing, skinny dipping and getting into mischief. He joined the Army Air Corps in 1941, graduating from flight school in 1945 as a 2nd Lieutenant. He graduated in 1949 from OBU with a BA in Bible and Psychology. In 1957 he graduated from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary with a Bachelor of Divinity. He pastored his first church in 1948 and continued serving in churches through 1985, in Oklahoma City and surrounding areas. From 1980 to 2000, he operated the Northwest Wedding Chapel and Rose garden, marrying over 2000 couples. He also held the rank of Major and Chaplin in the Civil Air Patrol for many years.

Viewing will be at Memorial Park Funeral Home, Friday, from 9am to 8pm, with family to receive friends from 5pm to 7pm. Family will also greet guest at Tulakes Baptist Church in Bethany, OK, from 12pm to 1:15pm, before the 1:30pm service there. Interment will follow at Resthaven Memory Gardens.