Robert “Bob” Francis Swafford, 79, of Maryville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on August 23, 2026, at home surrounded by his family.

Born on February 9, 1947 in Rockwood, Tennessee, Bob was the son of Homer and Mildred Swafford. He grew up in Chattanooga, Tennessee and graduated from Red Bank High School in 1965. He served in the United States Air Force from 1966-1970. Upon his discharge, he attended and graduated from The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga with his Bachelor of Science degree. He spent his entire career in the healthcare system including 27 years at Lakeshore Mental Health Institute where he was assistant superintendent.

Upon retirement from Lakeshore, he enjoyed his days on the farm he bought in Blount County. He cherished his time going to his daughter’s sporting events and riding on his tractor. He loved a Sunday afternoon drive with his family which always ended with a sweet treat. He adored his daughters and grandchildren.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Pamela Swafford; children Mary Rose (Matt) Hurton and Caroline Swafford; his three cherished grandchildren Violet, Talon, and Olivia Francis; and sister Carol Swafford Dowd.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Homer and Mildred Swafford, and daughter Kelly Swafford Simon.

The family would like to thank Prisma Hospice and his caregiver Kris Giles for the dedicated care they provided to Bob.

Services will be held on Saturday, August 29 at Smith’s Funeral Home in Maryville, Tennessee. Visitation will be from 2-3pm with service immediately following.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration.

Condolences may be shared at Smith Funeral and Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000, www.SmithFuneralandCremation.com.