Dorothy Swavely

Dorothy P. Swavely, beloved wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on December 12, 2024, at the age of 92. Born on March 15, 1932, in Reading, to the late William and Martha (Becker) Brensinger, Dorothy lived a life filled with love and dedication to her family, friends and community.

After graduation from Boyertown High School in 1950, Dorothy was married to her devoted husband, Leon C. Swavely, for 73 wonderful years. The bond they shared was a testament to true companionship and love, which served as an inspiring example to all who knew them. While she worked various jobs throughout her life, her true passion was as a homemaker. Dorothy took pride in creating a warm and welcoming home, filling it with love, kindness, laughter and the delightful smells of her baking and cooking. Some of her hobbies included crocheting, knitting, and embroidery. 

Dorothy’s passion for horses was a significant part of her life, as she and Leon bred and raised them together for many years. Her dedication to the equestrian community was evident in her roles as show manager, secretary, and an active member of the Indian Valley Appaloosa Horse Association and inspired young equestrians through her work as a leader in the Hereford 4-H Horse and Pony Club. She also touched many lives as a Sunday School teacher at St. John's Lutheran Church in Boyertown, where she and Leon shared their faith with the young children who attended. Additionally, she served as a former Girl Scout leader for her daughters' Boyertown troop, instilling values of friendship and service in the next generation.

Dorothy’s love for her family was profound and unwavering, serving as the foundation for the memories they will cherish forever. She is survived by children: Deborah Sobjak (Edward), Jeffrey Swavely (Jayne), Michael Swavely (Claudia), Cynthia Stringfellow, Michelle Swavely, and Nichole Swavely (Boyfriend, James Ferguson); grandchildren: Rebecca, Jessica, Brian, Jennifer, Joshua, Rachel, Meghan, Kate, Michael, Peter and Julia; Great-Grandchildren: Noah, Caleb, Jolene, Mackenzie, Gage, Abigail, Maxwell, Rowan, Luna, Zoey and Teddy. She is predeceased by brothers, Ralph “Sonny” and Stanley Brensinger.

Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to an animal rescue of your choice.