James Lee “Jimmy” Swanger, Jr.
James Lee “Jimmy” Swanger, Jr., age 61, of Shelby, passed away peacefully in his beloved garage Friday early afternoon, August 26, 2022 following a brief illness.
Jimmy was born August 6, 1961 in Shelby to James L. and Beverly J. (Wenning) Swanger. He lived his entire life in Shelby, attending Shelby schools and Pioneer Career and Technology Center, graduating in 1979. For Jimmy, his work and his passion was cars. Anything to do with cars, Jimmy could do it-whether that be under the hood or making wrecked car look brand new. After starting his family and surviving the flood in 1987, Jimmy changed careers and began working at the Tuby completing his electrician apprenticeship with them and retiring in 2019 under the ArcelorMittal ownership. However, he never quit working on cars as both his family and buddies at work can attest to. Jimmy would always lend a helping hand to anyone who stopped by the garage.
Jimmy is survived by his mother: Beverly; sons: Keith Swanger and Cory Swanger (Keighlee Hecker); grandchildren: Madelyn Melissa Swanger, Thayne Curtis Leroy Swanger, and Kynleigh Sue Gahr; brother: Jeffery (Annette) Swanger; sister-in-law: Julie (Ken) Swanger Ensman; nieces: Kayla (John) Roberts and Erica (Tyler) Fairchild; and great nieces: Brooklyn and Quinn Roberts. Also surviving are Jimmy’s cousins: Marvin (Susan) Jose and Shannon (Roman) Cap- who were more like a brother and sister than cousins; aunts and uncles: Peggy Estep, Joanne Milliron, Charles (Lorraine) Swanger, Douglas (Lorraine) Swanger, and Marilyn Dosier (Tommy Watts); and other cousins, relatives, and friends. Jimmy was preceded in death by his father: James L. Swanger; son: Curtis James Swanger; brother: John W. Swanger; maternal grandparents: John and Vella Wenning; and paternal grandparents: Kenneth L. and Esther Swanger.
Family and friends are welcome on Friday, September 9, 2022 (the Friday following Labor Day) from 2:30 pm- 4 pm at the Penwell Turner Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby where a procession to Oakland Cemetery will immediately follow calling hours. Graveside services will take place at Oakland Cemetery upon the procession arrival from the funeral home (around 4:15 pm). In true Jimmy fashion, casual attire is requested for those attending- nothing fancy. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, www.stjude.org/donate.
Condolences may be expressed by leaving a comment on Jimmy’s obituary on the funeral home’s website, www.PenwellTurner.com, or Facebook page, www.Facebook.com/PenwellFuneral.
To view Jimmy’s tribute video, click the link provided: https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/G5NFLBKF3JF2S3FX
I’ve known Jimmy for many, many years. He was a friend that helped me with automobile issues many times. I always loved stopping by the garage and just talking . We shared a lot of stories over the years and I’m going to miss him. R.I.P. brother. Sending Love and Peace to your family. John & Connie Bloom
Lifting you all in prayer ❤️
We are so sorry for the loss of your son, brother-in-law, and uncle. I know this is a great heartache for your family. God comfort you all and give you peace.
Dear Bev and family,
My heart breaks for you and yours, and I pray the God’s presence and sweet memories sustain you and bring sweet peace. Love you all!
My sincere condolences to Jimmy’s family. Jimmy was just like his obituary indicated. Always willing to help and very knowledgeable in dealing with any mechanical or electrical issue. He will be greatly missed by all.
We are so sorry for your loss, sending prayers to the family
Maggie Bashoff and Jeff Robinson
ALP LOT 49
My deepest sympathy to all, May God give you strength through this difficult time. Much love!
We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Bev and
the rest of your family. God bless all of you.
Bev, I am so very sorry for your loss. I will be praying for you and his sons. Sharon
I will remember Jimmy with a smile. From our many hours, over the years, of garage talks. Warmest thoughts and Prayers.
Bev, Very sorry for the loss of Jimmy
Will be praying for you and your family through this rough time
Dear Family
My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time cherish the memories and may God surround you with his peace and love.
Blessings
Pam