Samuel William Swanson Jr.

Samuel William Swanson Jr., a beloved educator and dedicated civil servant passed away on Tuesday, December 30th, 2025, at the age of 83. Born on December 8th, 1942, in Danville, VA, Samuel lived a life marked by service, commitment, and love for his family and community.

Samuel was the son of the late Samuel Waverly Swanson and Ruth Bell Swanson. A proud alumnus of Callands High School, Samuel furthered his education at Lynchburg College and Virginia Tech. For 30 years, Samuel dedicated himself to shaping young minds as a history and government teacher at Dan River High School. Following his teaching career, Samuel continued his service to the community as a Commissioner of Revenue in Pittsylvania County and a respected politician and civil servant for another 30 years. He also served of the Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors. He loyally attended Fairview Church. He was a member of Danville Shrine Club, a 32nd Degree Mason and a member and past Master of Kent Lodge #305. In his pastime, he enjoyed playing golf, travelling, politics, and sports. He was an avid Alabama Football and Green Bay Packers Fan.

Samuel is survived by his wife, Barbara Jennings Swanson, his son, Stephen Swanson (Stephanie), his stepson, Mark Deane, and stepdaughter, Annette Tennant (Mike), grandchildren, Ashley Swanson, Bryan Swanson, Jennings Deane, Tayler Tennant, and Magen Deane, and his brother, Claude Swanson (Carol Sue).

In addition to his parents, Samuel is predeceased by his daughter, Karen Yee, and 2 sisters, Kathryn Gibson (Gerald), and Mary Alice Swanson.

A visitation will be held at Townes Funeral Home Chapel in Danville, VA, on Saturday, January 3rd, 2026, from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm. A funeral service will be held on Sunday, January 4th, 2026, at 2:00 pm at Fairview Church in Danville, VA. Following the service, he will be laid to rest at Swansonville Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Danville Area Humane Society, 996 South Boston Rd, Danville, VA 24540 and Haven of Dan River Region. 

The family has entrusted the arrangements to Townes Funeral Home and Crematory, located at 215 West Main St., Danville, VA.