Alfred Swanson age 79 of Starke

Alfred Swanson, born January 17, 1947, in Cincinnati, Ohio, passed away peacefully on September 25, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Alfred grew up in Starke, Florida, where he spent most of his life. He faced numerous health challenges from birth, including cerebral palsy, which progressively affected him throughout the years. But Alfred never let his challenges take away his joy for life.

Gloria, Alfred, and Bobby were very close. They shared a special bond and were always there for one another. They were always looking out for each other, and together they got into their fair share of trouble and made plenty of memories along the way.

He had an infectious smile, the prettiest baby-blue eyes, and a personality that could light up a room. Alfred never met a stranger. He loved to laugh, cut the fool with you—or, as he would probably say, laugh at you! He had a wonderful sense of humor and a way of making people feel like they had known him forever.

For the last 15 years, Alfred called Windsor Manor Nursing Home his home. During that time, he made so many wonderful memories and, more importantly, gained another family. We will be forever grateful for the love, kindness, patience, and compassion that was shown to Alfred throughout all of these years. He loved all of his girls at Windsor Manor—and we’re pretty sure he flirted with every one of them!

Alfred enjoyed watching his Syfy shows and wrestling, and he especially loved his snacks that Sandra always made sure he had plenty of. It was the little things that brought him so much happiness.

One of Alfred’s final wishes was to be able to return to Windsor Manor, the place he considered home. We are so incredibly thankful to all of the girls who came to see Alfred, loved him, cared for him, and showed up for him during his final days. Your love meant more than words can express, and our family will never forget it.

Alfred is survived by his brother, Bobby Swanson (Connie) of Clay Hill; his nieces, Jennifer Barrs (David) and Cheri Chesser (Randy) of Starke; and numerous great nieces & nephews and lots of cousins that he loves dearly.

Alfred will be missed terribly by his family and by all those who were blessed to know and love him. His laughter, smile, beautiful blue eyes, and unforgettable personality will live on in our hearts forever.

Alfred was preceded in death by his mother, Mabel Lewis; his father, George Swanson; his sister, Gloria Starling; his nephew, Michael Swanson; and his nephew, Otis Starling.

Rest peacefully, Alfred. You were loved more than you ever knew, and you will never be forgotten. ❤️

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 6th, 2026 at 10:00 AM in the Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home Chapel (Starke), with a funeral service to follow beginning at 11:00 AM. An interment at Kingsley Lake Baptist Church Cemetery will take place immediately following chapel services. 

Arrangements are under the care of Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 620 Nona Street, Starke, FL 32091, (904) 964-6200.