Virginia Swannell

Virginia D. Swannell, age 97, passed away peacefully on June 14, 2013 at Riverside Health Center. Mrs. Swannell was born April 17, 1916 in Chicago, Ill., the only child of Charles and Elsie (Leibinger) Dole. A graduate of Senn High School, she always embraced her Windy City roots. Mrs. Swannell attended the University of Illinois where she was a member of Chi Omega sorority. It was at the University where she met her husband, Fred Swannell, Jr., of Kankakee. They were married in Chicago on August 5th, 1939. He preceded her in death on January 10, 2013. Survivors include three loving children, Charles (Ruth Ann), Medford Lakes, New Jersey, John, Kankakee, and Linda (Tom) Johnson, Carmel, Indiana, seven grandchildren and thirteen great grandchildren.

Mrs. Swannell was a long time member of Asbury United Methodist Church where she served many years as a volunteer at the Thrift Shop. She also belonged to Home Extension, Riverside Medical Auxiliary, Kankakee Woman’s Club, and was a Red Cross volunteer. During her life she enjoyed golfing at the Kankakee Country Club, needle-pointing, crocheting, and oil painting.

A memorial service for Mrs. Swannell will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, June 19th, at Asbury United Methodist Church, Beckman Chapel. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM until the time of service. Inurnment will take place at Mound Grove Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Kankakee County Historical Society, Asbury United Methodist Church, or Hospice of Kankakee Valley.