David Ellis Swanson

David Ellis Swanson, 78, of Flat Rock, North Carolina went home to be with his Lord on Friday, July 16, 2021. David was born on March 9, 1943, in St. Petersburg, Florida to the late Melvin Swanson and the late Lovie Louise Swanson.

David is survived by his wife of 55 years, Carol Swanson, his sons, Todd Swanson (Charity) and Kevin Swanson (Misty), his brother Dr. R. James Swanson (Gloria), Lynchburg, VA, and a brother-in-law, Pastor David Fraser, Roanoke, VA. He was predeceased by a brother, Lynwood Swanson, a sister, Joan Swanson San Filipino, a brother-in-law retired Colonel Anthony San Filipino and a sister-in-law, Tricia Fraser.

David attended Shorecrest Outdoor School, Florida Christian, Mirror Lake Jr. High, and Northeast High (class of ‘61), all in St Petersburg. He then spent 4 years at Wheaton College, Illinois where he was involved with the gymnastics team, the Craftshop, and ROTC. He graduated from Wheaton in 1965 with a BS in Biology. In 1965 he married the love of his life, Carol Lyons.

David taught school for five years, 2 in Illinois, 2 in Miami, and one at West Hendersonville High School with Coach Buddy Link and student Mickey Marvin. Since then, he was self-employed and owned and operated Swanson’s Organs, Pianos,and Gifts for 48 years. During these years he was an active member of First Presbyterian Church serving as a Sunday School Teacher, Junior Church Provider, and Deacon. He served as 4th-6th grade Sunday School Teacher at Covenant Pres., PCA, and most recently at Hendersonville First Baptist Church in Hendersonville.  His great joy was providing the music for the Special Friends’ Class for 25 years. He was also a member of Rotary, The Elks Lodge and Gideon’s International. David was the best father and husband one could hope to have. He is sorely missed, but our loss was definitely his gain for he is now with the Lord he longed to see. Rejoice with us that he is no longer bound by his earthly body!

Services are private.  Memorial Contributions may be made in David’s memory to Chosen People Ministries, Life in Messiah, and Bridges for Peace. We would like to thank Tore’s Home, E. Flat Rock for the loving care they gave him during the 3 months he was a resident and especially for their love and support during the last week of his life. Appreciation is also extended to Four Season’s Hospice. A special thanks to all those who have sent cards and brought food. It is much appreciated.