Alice Eggleston Swanson
Alice Eggleston Swanson, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on June 21, 2026 at the age of 96. Born on April 4, 1930, she was the daughter of Ruby and William Eggleston of Axton, VA. She grew up with a deep connection to the land, working hard on the family farm and learning the values of perseverance, kindness, and gratitude. She was a graduate from Axton High School. Soon after graduation, she began working at DuPont as a draw twist operator from 1948 to 1951. It was there that she met the love of her life, James Willis (JW) Swanson. They married January 18, 1950 and built a life together centered on hard work and family.
After welcoming her first son, she embraced her role as a devoted homemaker. She worked alongside her family on their cattle and tobacco farm, embodying a strong work ethic that was evident in everything she did. She was known by her family for her exceptional cooking and for showing her love through the meals she prepared — every dish a gesture of care, every table a place of togetherness. She also loved to grow a garden, tending to it with the same patience and dedication she gave to her family.
Her kitchen was a place where stories were shared, and everyone was welcome. Whether preparing a feast for a holiday gathering, caring for her garden, or offering a listening ear, she gave of herself freely and without hesitation.
She was a devoted member of County Line Christian Church in Axton, Virginia.
The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to her dedicated caregivers and Mountain Valley Hospice team who provided comfort, dignity, and kindness during her final days.
She is survived by her two sons, Thomas Henry “Tommy” Swanson of Callands and Curtis Norman Swanson (Sharon) of Callands; six grandchildren, Jason Swanson of Chatham, Thomas Swanson Jr. (Michelle) of Goodview, Derrick Swanson (Jenny) of Chatham, Justin Swanson of Callands, Daniel Swanson (Lori) of Callands, and Tiffany Swanson-Jones (Ken) of Danville as well as 9 great-grandchildren, 5 step-great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild and her sister-in-law, Bonnie Swanson.
She was preceded in death by her husband, JW Swanson, in 1998, and by her brother, Henry Clay Eggleston. Her legacy of unwavering work ethic will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
A funeral service honoring Mrs. Swanson will be held Thursday, June 25, 2026, 2:00 p.m. at County Line Christian Church with Minister Dean Ashby officiating. Burial will follow at the Eggleston Family Cemetery in Martinsville. A visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m., also at County Line Christian Church.
At other times the family will receive friends and family at the residence.
Norris Funeral Services, Chatham Chapel is serving the family.
