Barbara Joan Swan

Born in Everett, Massachusetts, she was the eldest daughter of Grace and Robert Hare. Barbara graduated from Scituate High School and attended Powers School of Business before beginning her career at Hancock Insurance in Boston.

In 1958, she married Ronald Swan. The couple lived in Germany during Ron’s Army service before settling in Scituate, Massachusetts, where they raised their family and lived independently until recent illness.

Barbara was a dedicated community leader. She managed the St. Luke’s Episcopal Church consignment shop with care and efficiency, served as president of the church’s women’s group, taught Sunday school, led Scout troops, and volunteered with local elections and the Scituate Historical Society. Known for her warmth, wit, and strong leadership, she brought people together with fairness and a welcoming spirit.

A woman of integrity, Barbara was practical, insightful, and generous with praise. She never compromised her values and left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

She is survived by her daughter Deborah Carleen; son Stephen Swan and his wife Kristy; grandchildren Courtney Dotson (Aaron) and Christopher Swan; great-grandchildren Harper and Jaxson Dotson; sister Ann Warner (Ned); sister-in-law Fran Hare; and many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husband of 66 years, Ronald Swan; her parents Robert and Grace Hare; brothers Robert and John “Jackie” Hare; and May and Henry Merritt, who provided a loving and stable home for Barbara and her sister Ann—so much so that May and Henry were the ones Barbara’s children, Deborah and Stephen, knew as their grandparents.

Barbara loved cards and candid conversation. Small in stature but mighty in presence, her legacy lives on in her family, her community, and the many lives she touched through kindness, leadership, and quiet strength. She will be deeply missed.

A private burial will be held at Blue Hill Cemetery in Braintree, Massachusetts, where she will be laid to rest beside Ron.