Richard "Dick" C. Swayze

Richard Cover “Dick” Swayze, 89, of Monticello, IN, passed away Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at White County IU Hospital.

Dick was born in his family home on August 7, 1935, in Jackson Township, IN, the son of Galen and Alice (Cover) Swayze. He was a 1953 graduate of Royal Center High School. On September 18, 1955, he married his best friend, sweetheart, and love of his life, Donna Kay (Daugherty) Swayze, at White Oak Methodist Church, near Headlee, IN. 

Dick’s life was one defined by service, adventure, and an unwavering dedication to others. For nearly 30 years, Dick worked for RCA in Monticello. He was also a familiar face to local farmers, as he was always eager and willing to lend a helping hand. Dick took great pride in his service with the National Guard, which he served for 8 years before receiving an honorable discharge. He was a member of the Monticello United Methodist Church, Amvets Post #81, and, for more than 50 years, served as member of the Libanus Lodge #154 F&AM.

After leaving RCA, Dick embarked on a new journey, launching his own lawn care business, which he ran for decades. His services often extended beyond cutting grass - as he would offer his assistance to senior citizens in the community by picking up their groceries, making deliveries for them, and helping with the upkeep of their homes. His generosity knew no bounds. 

Dick had a gift for storytelling and a personality that could light up any room. His stories - often wild and unpredictable - always kept his family guessing, but never failed to entertain. Dick was social by nature, never meeting a stranger. He loved hosting social gatherings, playing cards with friends, and was an avid bowler. He was a devoted sports fan, cheering passionately for Purdue, the Chicago Cubs, and the Indianapolis 500. 

Dick was an adventurer at heart, whether it be explorations and antics on his childhood farm, a cross-country road trip, or traveling far and wide with his wife and family. Dick treasured time with his loved ones. He built a lifetime of memories, eagerly celebrated his loved ones’ milestones, and took great pride in each of their accomplishments. His wife endearingly referred to him as a “Huckleberry Finn.” 

He was deeply devoted to his wife of 69 years, Donna Kay, who survives; along with his three children Lucinda “Cindy” Cohen (Morey) of Cincinnati, OH, Lori Sickler (John) of Lafayette, IN, and Brian Swayze (Paige) of Fishers, IN. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Justin Sickler (Stuart Rivard), Lindsey Sickler, Allyson Pucillo (Nick), Katelyn Issler, Erin Bove (Jeffrey), Sloane Hijar (Andres), and Caden Swayze. Additionally, surviving are his six great-grandchildren, Norah, Rosie, Olivia, Weston, Louie, Eli, and one on the way. Several nieces and nephews also survive. 

Dick was preceded in death by his parents, Galen and Alice Swayze, his sister Patricia Earhart and her husband, K.E, brother Ronald Swayze and his wife Sharlene. 

Visitation will be Saturday, December 7, 2024 from 11:00 am until the time of services celebrating Dick's life at 1:00 pm at Springer-Voorhis-Draper Funeral Home of Monticello. Pastor Justin Cason of Monticello United Methodist Church will officiate services. Funeral services will begin with Masonic Services. 

Services will also be live streamed at 1:00 pm and may also be viewed later online at: https://webcasts.lifetributes.com/1341254   

Burial will follow in Riverview I.O.O.F. Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions may be given to the Monticello United Methodist Church or the White County Council on Aging. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. 

Friends and family are encouraged to share a photo, a memory, or messages of condolence at  www.springervoorhisdraper.com

Springer-Voorhis-Draper Funeral Home is entrusted with care.