Norman Phillip Swafford, 87, of St. Louis, passed away on November 19th, 2025, at St. Clare Hospital in Fenton, surrounded by family.
Born on February 8th, 1938, in Macedonia, Missouri, to Lloyd and Ruby Swafford, Norman enjoyed a warm and loving childhood. He proudly served as a Military Police Officer in the U.S. Army in Germany, an experience that deepened his natural discipline, integrity, and patriotism.
After returning home, he met the love of his life, Jean Swafford. They married on February 6th, 1965, and shared 60 devoted years together. Their partnership was marked by deep affection, loyalty, and a truly extraordinary bond. Norman was a dedicated father to three daughters and later a proud grandfather. His gentle strength, humor, and steady presence were constants in the lives of those he loved. He built a long and respected career at Anheuser-Busch, where he was known for his strong work ethic and lasting friendships. An avid outdoorsman, Norman loved water skiing at the Lake of the Ozarks, where the family built a home filled with cherished memories. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, traveling with Jean, birdwatching, enjoying pastries, and spending time at Crouthers Academy, where many lovingly called him “Grandpa Jean.”
Norman is preceded in death by his parents Lloyd Swafford and Ruby Walton Swafford, his granddaughter Madelyn Elaine Underhill, and many beloved friends that he cherished throughout his life.
Norman is survived by his wife Jean Swafford; his children, Lisa Swafford Madden (Bill Madden), Laura Swafford Underhill (Steven Underhill), Leslie Swafford Crouthers (Matthew Crouthers); grandchildren, Ashlyn Firman, Kyleigh Firman Grunberg, Hannah Underhill Key, Rachel Underhill, Layne Crouthers, and Abigail Crouthers; sister, Diane Harrison; nieces and nephews, Christopher Shoemaker and Susan Shoemaker Royer.
Norman was truly a wonderful man who will be profoundly missed. In the days, weeks, months, and years to come, his presence will be felt in every Toby Keith lyric heard, every baked good enjoyed, and every moment we will continue to share with his beloved Jean.
Services: Funeral services will be held Sunday, November 23rd, from 11–3 pm at Kutis South County, 5255 Lemay Ferry Rd, St. Louis, MO 63129 with a reception to follow at the Crouthers’ home.
Dearest Jean, please accept our deepest thoughts/condolences to you and yours over the loss of Norman. We offer you and family our heartfelt support, friendship and prayers in this diffcult time. May God Bless and watch over you and yours.