Obituaries – Their Stories Live On

Ms. Janet Dean Swafford, 67, of Charlotte, NC formerly of Greentown, WV, peacefully departed this life January 31, 2026.

Janet was born December 26, 1958, she was the daughter of late Arthur and Mary Swafford of Greentown, WV.

Janet was also preceded in death by eldest brother, Arthur (Bobby) Swafford, Jr. and youngest sister, Corinne Vanover.

Janet leaves behind to cherish her memories four brothers, Walter Swafford of Greentown, WV, Calvin Swafford of Oak Hill, WV, John Matthew Swafford (Debra) of Des Moines, IA, and Sylvester Allen Swafford (Tracie) of Charlotte, NC; three sisters, Darlene Goard of Oak Hill, WV, Patricia Moore (Ernest) of Mt. Holly, NC, and Gwendolyn Lee of Auburn, AL; two children, Lacinda Pannell (Julius) of Charlotte, NC and David Swafford of Houston, TX; fiancé, Nathaniel Black of Charlotte, NC; four grandchildren, Kameron McDowell, Kaleb McDowell, Genesis Oates, and Genveyieh Oates, all of Charlotte, NC and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Janet, a devoted and hardworking woman, spent many years employed at the Hilltop Baptist Convention Center, Hilltop, WV. She also worked as a home healthcare aide, a role that reflected her compassionate spirit and commitment to helping others. Janet ultimately decided to move to Charlotte, so she could be closer to her fiancé, children and grandchildren.

Janet was a loving mother and a proud grandmother, all of whom were the joy of her life. She cherished time spent with her family and found greatest happiness in nurturing and supporting those she loved. A faithful believer, Janet was a member of Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, Garten, WV, where she enjoyed fellowship and worship. She was also a former member of First Missionary Baptist Church of Greentown, Greentown, WV. Janet will be remembered for her contagious smile, upbeat personality, work ethic, giving heart, and unwavering love for her family and friends. She had a vibrant spirit and was well known for having a good time, lighting up any room with her laughter, dancing, and singing. Whether music was playing or not, Janet found a way to turn ordinary moments into eventful ones. Though she will be deeply missed, her love and laughter will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Funeral service will be 12:00PM Tuesday February 10, 2026 at Hilltop Baptist Center
The Baptist Road Hilltop.

Friends, while wearing masks and observing social distancing, may view and visit with the family one-hour prior.

Email condolences to ritchiejohnsonfuneralparlor@gmail.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Ritchie & Johnson Funeral Parlor, Beckley.