Carolyn Swartz

Carolyn Berniece Swartz, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away on October 10, 2024 at 90 years old. Born Carolyn Berneice Reynolds on July 6, 1934, to Claude and Marquerite (Edwards) Reynolds, she lived a life full of adventure and devotion. On June 28, 1952, Carolyn married August “Burt” Swartz, and together they embarked on an extraordinary journey. They began their family life in Perry Michigan, moved to Glen Arbor, Michigan, before setting sail for Rockport, Texas, in 1981. The family’s adventure started aboard a 22-foot sailboat, with Carolyn and Burt navigating the Great Lakes, making memories with their two teenage children along the way. After a two-month journey, they docked in Peria, Illinois, and then continued their trek to Texas by Greyhound bus, eventually finding their home along the Gulf Coast. As empty nesters, Carolyn and Burt resumed their sailing adventures, spending three years exploring and embracing the rich culture of Tampico, Mexico. Upon returning to Rockport, Carolyn channeled her energy into starting a cleaning business, dedicating nearly 20 years to her work and the community. 

A devoted Christian, Carolyn was known for her unwavering faith, daily scripture readings, and her compassion for others. She lived her life embodying the love of God, always ready to lend a helping hand. 

Carolyn is preceded in death by her parents, Claude and Marquerite Reynolds; her sister, Twila DeFreese; her brother, Dale Reynolds; her beloved husband of 43 years, August Burton Swartz; her sons Garry, Brian, John David, and Kim Swartz; her son-in-law, Ralph Cozart; her daughter-in-law, Judith Swartz; her grandson, Joshua Cozart; and her great-grandson, Huckston Williams. She is survived by her loving family, sons: Scott (Tamera) Swartz, Mark (Stacey) Swartz, daughters; Laurie (Tim) Fortine and Leslie (Bill) Krenek, 21 grandkids, 46 great-grandkids and 11 great-great grandkids, who will carry on her legacy of love, faith, and adventure. Carolyn will be deeply missed by all who knew her. 

The family would like to thank all the staff in the Memory Unit at the Rockport Nursing and Rehabilitation Center for the great love and care that they provided to Carolyn "mom".