Elaine Swails
1926 - 2024
Condolences
Elaine was such a lovely person. I remember her from Girl Scout days when she would host leaders’ meetings. She always included delicious food and was so hospitable. Her passing is so sad but leaves us with such pleasant memories.
Mark and Fran, I was very sorry to hear of Elaine’s passing. The last time I spoke with her was to tell her of my mom’s passing.
Dave Hughes
Dear Mark & Mindy,Fran & Jimmy,Sara and Family.
We sure was shocked to hear about the passing of
Elaine.We are sorry for your loss.
Sincerally
Bart and Connie Smothers
Dear Mark & Mindy, Fran & Jimmy, and Sara and Family,
I was so distressed to hear of Elaine's passing. I only found out yesterday afternoon. I hope you know I would have loved to attend her funeral. Fran, you and your mom were so kind to come to Mom's funderal two years ago. And Elaine then came to Kirk's funeral 6 weeks later. It meant so much to us and I would have loved to extend that kindness to all of you.
When a love one is lost, every visitor, every card, every acknowledement of that loss is treasured.
Elaine and all you kids were such wonderful neighbors on C St. I have so many fond memories of playing in both our yards. Even after we were grown, and Mom moved to Bon Aire, Elaine still came by to visit Mom and once a year brought her pecans which had become her tradition. It meant so much to Mom.
You are all in my thoughts and prayers while you navigate this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Pam (Simmonds) Butler
Elaine was highly involved with Girls Scouts. She was a huge supporter to my mother, Donna Epley, during my mother's time with the Girl Scouts. Elaine was kind and hard-working and considerate. We remember her fondly. Dea Epley Birtwistle on behalf of the Donna Epley Family
Mark & Mindy, Fran & Jimmy, and Sara and Family,
Elaine was a bright light to everyone she met. I knew her through First United Methodist Church and as a member of the Pilot Club of Iowa City. We also crossed paths in Girl Scouts.
Elaine and Gretchen Schreffler started the Pilot Club's Annual Breakfast & Bazaar 49 years ago. They started with farm fresh eggs, little smokies and cinnamon rolls with OJ and Coffee. They had the event running like a swiss watch! Elaine even grew fresh parsley in her back yard for us to use as garnish on the breakfast plates. I am the current heir of the Breakfast reins from Elaine and Gretchen. I learned from them though am convinced I could never run things as well as they did. Elaine last attended the breakfast in 2022. She could still pop up with a reminder that somehow we had forgotten.
I saw Elaine at Briarwood on Sunday, 5 days before she passed. I brought her a chocolate milkshake which she enjoyed while licking her lips and smiling. I will cherish the time spent with her that day. She was proud of the Pilot Club of Iowa City and its success and focus on supporting our community. She expressed how well cared for she was a Briarwood and she was glad to be there.
Elaine was a woman not to be reckoned with. She did her homework. Kept good records. She was not going to be overlooked or dismissed. Elaine was one resourceful Girl Scout with the adaptability and vision of a good Pilot.
Many people, including me are the beneficiary of her wisdom, wit and friendship, and I'll be forever grateful.
What a grand reunion it must have been when your dad and brother welcomed Elaine to God's house!
Visitation
Funeral Service
Burial
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