We never thought when we woke that morning the sorrow that day would bring. The pain was hard, the shock severe, to part with one we loved so dear.

John Richard Swann Sr. was born to the late William Alex Swann and Sarah (Sally) Arm Swann on October 17, 1937, in Charles County Maryland. He unexpectedly departed this life on May 9, 2009 exactly 9 years to the day from his beloved wife Shirley Mae Swann.

He grew up in Charles County Maryland, where he attended public schools.

John Richard Swann Sr. met Shirley Mae Thompson at Proctor's Inn in Waldorf Maryland in the late 1950's. Richard asked Shirley could he take her home and she replied did you bring me here. After Richard's persistence they were united in marriage on November 21, 1959. From this union four children were born Priscilla (Penny) Michelle, John (Rickey) Richard II, Joseph Kevin and Rhonda Denise. All of whom adored him and considered him their best friend.

Richard retired from D&R Backhoe Company in 1999 after 35 years of devoted service. In his spare time he enjoyed the company of family and friends. Richard will be fondly remembered by his nickname Uncle John and JR to those he worked with. He will also be remembered by his many hilarious jokes while drinking out of his RED cup.

John Richard Swann Sr. is survived by three loving children; Penny, Rickey and Rhonda; one grandchild, Dasani Mae Mitchell; three brothers, John Theodore Swann, Joseph Lindbergh Swann and William Alex Swann Jr.; three sisters. Mary Viola Thompson, Elizabeth Bernice Swann and Myrtle Regina Swann, a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends. Unfortunately, Richard was preceded in death by his wife Shirley Mae, son, Joseph Kevin, brother, William Leroy and sister, Catherine Geneva Swann.

Viewing, Saturday, May 16, 2009, 10:00 am until Mass of Christian Burial, 11:00 a.m. at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, 4590 St. Joseph Way, Pomfret, Maryland. Interment, St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Pomfret, Maryland.

Arrangements entrusted to Thornton Funeral Home, P.A. Pomonkey, Maryland.