Mr. Landus Swafford

The Life of Mr. Landus Swafford LANDUS SWAFFORD was born July 6, 1921 (affectionately known as “Swafford”, “Landus” or “Papa”) to the late Andrew Swafford and Susie Elzy in Colfax, Louisiana. He was the only son of his parents. He attended primary school, only completing the third grade. He later advanced to the US Army, dedicating years of honorable service in WW II. Among his accomplishments, he received multiple acknowledgments and awards including the Philippine Liberation, Asiatic Pacific Campaign with bronze stars, Good Conduct, American Theatrical, and the WWII Victory Award and was a “sparring partner” to Army boxers. Although only a third-grade education, Swafford had sharp wit and a high IQ on life. After returning from service, Swafford began his career with a few jobs and ultimately retired from Davidson Sash and Door in Alexandria, LA, after 30 years of dedicated service. It was in Colfax where he met and married the late Lucy Mae King in 1947. Out of that union, he fathered, Delores Swafford Pope. Much later in life, he married the late Mamie Green and resided in Alexandria, LA until her death in 2013. He then relocated to Loganville, Georgia residing with his daughter and son-in-law until recently. God was the nucleus of Landus’ life. He was an active member of Mt. Zion and St. Matthews Baptist Churches in Alexandria, LA before relocating to Georgia where he sat as the oldest male member of the Hopewell NE Baptist Church in Grayson, Georgia. He always had a song to sing and scripture in his heart to give. One of his favorite scriptures was Hebrews 11:16 KJV - “But now they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.” One of his favorite songs was, “Some Glad Morning When This Life is Over, I’ll Fly Away.” Landus loved being around people where he was happiest and at his best, always having a good story to tell. You could not be around him without him boasting about his children and their accomplishments, his time in the War, and his experiences throughout his life. One of his greatest moments was witnessing the first black President of the United States, Barack Obama being sworn in. Too often than not, he did not mind sharing what was on his heart. Papa Swafford’s impact went further than even he could imagine through good fellowship. When he missed an event, he was amazed at how many people “called to check on” him. Understandably so, because not only was he a true man of God but was also an extremely handsome one with the gift of gab and charisma - he could not help but bring light, quick wit, and laughter wherever present, Churches, VA med visits, barber shops, hospitals and especially McDonald's on Grayson Hwy. Papa Swafford was a free spirit, blessed with independence, who took every opportunity to experience new things and make new friends. He was always on the go, worked as a landscaper, and drove vehicles until he was 98 years old. He held relationships in high regard, ones that will never diminish simply because of the love and legacy he leaves behind. He took “mess” from no one and spoke candidly while understanding what peace really meant, living life to the fullest until age and illness set in. A man of noble spirit and was an example for all of us to live by. Left to mourn Papa Swafford’s earthly presence, is his one and only child, Delores Swafford Pope (Morris); three granddaughters, Angela Thompson-Felder (Harry), Wakanda Thompson, and Danielle Thompson; six great-grandchildren: Anderson Jevon-Swafford Smith, Dorienne Thompson, Jared Smith, Niya Thompson, Delani Smith, and Donovan Thompson; three stepchildren, Brenda Rogers (Roderick), Alvin Green, Gwen Green, and Jackie Green, as well as a host of relatives and friends. Special acknowledgments are in order for Pastor Sterling Terrell, Pastor Frank Jackson, and Pastor Emeritus Bishop Joe Green of Alexandria, LA, his former pastors, mentors, and friends. Finally, we would be remised if we didn’t mention his respect and love for his current pastors: Pastors Gerard and Veta Blanding, and his loving in spirit and in deed, Hopewell Church family. May God bless you all for loving him. So, one glad morning, Tuesday morning, when his life was no more, Papa Swafford gained his wings and flew away to a better country, that Heavenly City, to be with his God. Hallelujah! Amen Services entrusted to Gregory B. Levett & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory Lawrenceville 770-338-5558

Tributes

Mr. Landus Swafford

July 12, 1921 - September 27, 2022