Charles Riddell Swicegood

Charles Riddell Swicegood passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 9th, 2026, at the age of 96. Born on Sunday, July 14th, 1929, in Caswell County, NC, Charles was a son of the late Walter James Swicegood Sr. and Mary Veigh Riddell Swicegood. He was the epitome of kindness, generosity, and humility. He was a proud alumnus of Virginia Tech, where he cultivated a lifelong passion for the Hokies. His career as an electrical engineer in Baltimore and Washington, DC, spanned four decades, starting at Bendix before moving to the Department of the Navy. A veteran of the Army, Charles served his country with honor and pride.

In his personal life, Charles found joy in fishing, boating, and watching PBS documentaries. He loved to travel and did so extensively, here at home and abroad, was a music enthusiast and a handy man who could fix just about anything. He was also an avid supporter of the Washington Redskins and enjoyed living at Smith Mountain Lake, where he found peace and happiness. Having no children of his own, he was a beloved father to his six nieces and nephews and a very special uncle to the rest of his family.

Charles was preceded in death by his brothers Walter "Jay" James Swicegood, Jr. and Dewey Swicegood, Sr. He is survived by his sister, Barabra S. Ford, and a host of nieces and nephews: Donna Pyrtle, Janet Livick (Mark), Dewey Swicegood, Jr. (Peggy), Ken Ford (Jill), Joel Swicegood (Mollie), and Tracy Harrison (Jim). He also leaves behind 11 great-nieces and nephews and 8 great-great-nieces and nephews.

A graveside service to honor Charles's life will be held at a later date at Mountain View Cemetery, with the Reverend Joe Northen officiating.

The family has entrusted arrangements to Townes Funeral Home and Crematory, 215 West Main St., Danville, VA. 434-793-1211.