Penwell Turner Funeral Home - Shelby, Ohio

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

Memories & Condolence

  1. John bloom says:

    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

  2. Darlene & Michael Mullins says:

    Lifting you all in prayer ❤️

  3. Steve & Ellen Haverfield says:

    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.

  4. Jeff Damron says:

    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!

  5. Michael L. Grahan says:

    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.

  6. Margaret Bashoff says:

    We are so sorry for your loss, sending prayers to the family

    Maggie Bashoff and Jeff Robinson
    ALP LOT 49

  7. Darlene Zappa says:

    My deepest sympathy to all, May God give you strength through this difficult time. Much love!

  8. Joy Trucks & Slim says:

    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.

  9. Sharon McNary says:

    Bev, I am so very sorry for your loss. I will be praying for you and his sons. Sharon

  10. Mike Detterman says:

    I will remember Jimmy with a smile. From our many hours, over the years, of garage talks. Warmest thoughts and Prayers.

  11. Chris @ Sunrise Underground Services says:

    Bev, Very sorry for the loss of Jimmy
    Will be praying for you and your family through this rough time

  12. Pam says:

    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

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