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Mrs. Darlene Swafford Goard

12/8/1950 - 2/7/2026

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Obituary For Mrs. Darlene Swafford Goard

Mrs. Darlene Swafford Goard, 75, of Oak Hill, WV, peacefully departed this life February 7, 2026.

Darlene was born December 8, 1950. She was the eldest daughter of late Arthur B. And Mary M. Swafford of Greentown, WV.

Darlene, in addition to her parents, was preceded in death by husband, Caravel Goard; eldest brother, Arthur (Bobby) Swafford; youngest sister, Corrine Vanover and second to youngest sister, Janet Swafford.

Darlene leaves to cherish her precious memories are four children, Leland Swafford of Dunbar, WV, Caravel Goard of Parkersburg, WV, William Swafford of Parkersburg, WV, and Jonathan Swafford of Oak Hill, WV; brothers, Walter Swafford of Greentown, WV, Calvin Swafford of Oak Hill, WV, John Matthew Swafford and wife, Debra of Des Moines, IA, and Sylvester Allen Swafford and wife, Tracie of Charlotte, NC; sisters, Patricia Moore and husband, Ernest of Mt. Holly, NC, and Gwendolyn Lee of Auburn, AL; 15 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Darlene worked as home health provider and various retail stores throughout her years, Heck’s, Ames, Big Lots and lastly Dollar Tree. She was also an avid bowler for many years.

Darlene was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Beckley, WV and was a former member of The First Missionary Church of Greentown, Greentown, WV.

Darlene will remembered for her love of music and singing. Playing piano and guitar, as well as spreading her smile wherever she went. Although she will be missed her life and memories will be carried on through all who knew her.

As per her request, she has been cremated.

Family directed memorial service will be 12:00PM-1:00PM Saturday, February 21, 2026 at First Missionary Baptist Church of Greentown 107 Wilborne Rd. Greentown.

Friends, while practicing social distancing, may visit with the family one-hour prior.

Email condolences to ritchiejohnsonfuneralparlor@gmail.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Ritchie & Johnson Funeral Parlor, Beckley.

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Condolences

  • 02/23/2026

    Ida Franklin

    I was saddened to hear of Darlene's passing. We grew up together, went to school together. As a childhood friend, I have many memories. 🥰 We got reconnected on FB. We sent Christmas cards each year to each other., talked a few times on the phone. I will miss hearing from her. Sending prayers of consolation to the family.Love, Ida Franklin

  • 02/19/2026

    Charles and Viola Huff

    Prayers are being lifted for the family of Darlene during this difficult time.

  • 02/18/2026

    Nielani Lee

    Family, as we walk through this time of loss, may we know that the Lord walks with us and He will comfort us. Aunt Darlene was a strong kind woman...... Nielani Lee

  • 02/17/2026

    Bertha Blankenship

    To the family my deepest condolences, all my thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time. Darlene was a wonderful person and I loved her so much. She was also the other grandma to my granddaughter Amiayah Rain. She loved her so very much and I hope that I can be the best grandma to Amiayah like she was. For as long as I breathe I will continue to remind Amiayah of her and her love for her. She will definitely be missed by so many.

  • 02/16/2026

    Linda Friley

    I'm so sorry to hear about Darlene's passing. We were neighbors at Pine Knoll for many years. She was a great friend and wonderful woman and a sweetheart. She will be missed by all who knew her. My deepest sympathy to all of her family. Praying for peace and comfort for all of you during this difficult time.

  • 02/16/2026

    Celeste Morgan

    Darlene had a kind heart and loving spirit. Love and prayers from the Morgan Batey and Jackson families.

  • 02/11/2026

    Sandy Sheely Pates

    Please accept the Sheely family's most sincerest condolences and sympathy during this difficult time of grief. May the Lord comfort and strengthen you. Sandy Sheely Pates

  • 02/09/2026

    C. Anderson

    To The Family, Please Accept My Heartfelt Condolences. Truly the loss of a precious loved one is most difficult. Please find comfort in the promise our most loving Heavenly Father Jehovah God gives us in Revelation 21:4"And He will wipe out every tear from their eyes and death will be no more; neither will mourning; nor outcry; nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away." Yes, We can look forward to a time soon to come when all suffering including death will be done away with forever. For more encouraging information from the bible. Please visit jw.org

  • 02/09/2026

    Betty Ruth

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