David Roy Swearingen

David “Dave” Roy Swearingen, 79, of Raleigh passed away surrounded by family at his residence on February 5th. He was born in Illinois to parents William Everett and Marjorie Swearingen who preceded him in death. He served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War ultimately retiring from the Navy Reserves. After retiring, he began a second career in the field of life sciences. His love of travel fostered during his time of service and continued in retirement. In recent years, he enjoyed exploring the states in his RV with family and friends.

Dave is survived by his wife of 60 years, Cheryl Swearingen; their two children Debbie Shellabarger and her husband Scott, and Michael Swearingen; his sister Kay Albin; grandchildren Brooke Little and her husband Louis, Dalton Shellabarger and his wife Jessica, Christian Swearingen, Jarrett Swearingen, and Lauren Swearingen; and great-grandchildren Luke Little and Gavin Little.

A celebration of Dave’s life, with military honors, will be held on Saturday March 4th beginning at 2:00 at Bryan Lee Funeral Home in Garner.