Thomas Kenneth Swain

In loving memory of Thomas Kenneth Swain who passed away on January 22, 2024, in his native Wilmington, NC at the age of 75. Born on September 30, 1948, Ken had a vibrant personality and was loved by all who knew him.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Willetts Swain and Doris Mae Roberts Swain, as well as his sister, Linda Swain Boswell, all of Wilmington, NC. He is survived and dearly missed by his devoted wife of 25 years, Jill Gaffney Swain of Hampstead, NC, and his cherished daughter, Saundra Louise Swain and her partner David Mckimm of Leland, NC.

Also left to cherish his memory are his brother-in-law, Donnie Lee Boswell Sr., niece Tammy Ikner, and nephew Donnie Lee Boswell Jr. and his wife Tannis, along with their children Isabella, Abigail, and Dylan, all residing in NC.

Ken welcomed his daughter Saundra in 1984 with former wife Dianne Stokes Larson. Saundra will always remember Ken filling her world with music and loudly playing guitar and singing to her. In 1998 Ken married Jill Gaffney and they were married for 25 years until his passing. Ken enjoyed tinkering in his workshop, spending time with his family and many grandpets, and indulging in snacks with his cat Smokey.

Ken had a long and successful career, dedicating 50 years of his life to Corning, where he made so many friends there that he was sure to run into someone he knew everywhere he went. He was even able to work alongside his friend David Wrede, who he met in high school electronics class. Across the decades, their friendship grew and the two became like brothers, supporting each other through the successes and trials of life. After retiring from Corning, Ken reconnected with his childhood friend Robert Batts and enjoyed several years of playing guitar together again. With the addition of Robert to the duo, they became the "Three Amigos," often kayaking and exploring new adventures together.

A visitation for Ken will be held Thursday, February 1, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Coble Funeral & Cremation Service at Greenlawn Memorial Park, 1155 Shipyard Blvd, Wilmington, North Carolina 28412, followed by a memorial service at 2:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to the Hospice Foundation of America. Your generous donations will support a cause that was close to Ken's heart.

May the memories of Ken's humor, love, and zest for life bring comfort to all who mourn his loss.