Mrs. Phyllis Gail Swafford, age 74, of DeFuniak Springs, Florida, passed away Wednesday, September 4, 2024 at Chautauqua Springs Health Center in DeFuniak Springs. She was born March 28, 1950 in Atlanta, Georgia to the late Grady and L. Dee Freeman Collett. She was also preceded in death by her loving husband, Chuck Swafford.

Survivors include her children, Rev. Fr. Rick Gillert, Todd (Ginger) Gillert, Daniel (Samantha) Gillert, Donovan (Lara) Swafford and Celeste (David) Swafford Stubelt, her grandchildren, Katelyn (Michael) Robertson, Austin Gillert, Gabe Gillert, Anna Gillert, Zoe Gillert, David (Georjean) Stubelt, Jaimie (Laurel) Mathieson, Sara Brennan and Lily Swafford, and her great-grandchildren, Fynn, Ayla, Emma and Eli, sister Pamela Chaney and niece Amanda Mcginnis.

Gail embraced a variety of roles throughout her life. She served as an office manager for a medical practice, worked as a district manager for Weight Watchers in the Atlanta area, and worked as a teacher at the Atlanta School for the Deaf. As an accomplished florist and home stager, Gail had an eye for beauty and detail that extended to every aspect of her life. Travel and photography were among her cherished hobbies, reflecting her love for capturing and exploring the world around her.

Gail used her creative talents to write children's plays and captivate young audiences with her puppetry and ventriloquism. But perhaps one of her most profound loves was for her dogs. Gail's passion for animals was evident in the way she cared for her rescues, many of whom were trained as therapy dogs and Reading Education Assistance Dogs. Her dedication to volunteering at local elementary schools with her dogs to support children's literacy is a testament to her generosity and belief in the power of companionship.

Graveside will be held on Saturday, September 14, 2024 at 1:00 PM at Magnolia Cemetery with Reverend Richard Murray officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Greyhound Crossroads at 314 Sample Rd, Greenwood, SC, 29649.

You may view obituaries, offer condolences, and sign the guest book at www.clary-glenn.com. Clary-Glenn Funeral Homes & Crematory is entrusted with the arrangements.