Richard (Dick) Stanley Swanson

Richard (Dick) Stanley Swanson, 77, of Fairhope, Alabama passed away peacefully at home on June 12, 2026 after a brief illness.

Born on June 22, 1948 in Atlanta, Georgia, he was preceded in death by his parents James Herbert Swanson, Jr. and Jane Head Swanson, and his loving first wife Beverly Thompson Swanson.

Dick grew up in Georgia, Arizona and California.  He especially enjoyed the outdoor life in Arizona where he hiked, swam, hunted and skied.  After moving from Marietta, Georgia Dick graduated from Central High School in Carrollton, Georgia.  Dick attended West Georgia University for a year before joining the Navy where he proudly served for four years.  He loved being on the ship USS Independence, working as an aviation electrician, and really enjoyed the opportunities to fly with the pilots.  Dick was proud to be selected for assignment to Top Gun.  Following his Navy service Dick attended the Georgia Institute of Technology where he received a degree in Industrial Management.  A devoted alumnus, he remained a passionate supporter of Georgia Tech athletics, enjoying many years of tailgating and fellowship with Beverly and friends.

Dick began his career in Atlanta, Georgia at ITE, remaining with the company as it evolved and eventually became a part of Siemens.  Known as the ‘condo king’ Dick was influential in the development of many of the high rises lining the gulf coast beaches.  After a long and successful career with Siemens, Dick retired to enjoy the things that brought him joy.  He was an avid sailor, runner, and traveler, and particularly enjoyed cruising.  He was a longtime member of the Fairhope Yacht Club.

Dick engaged in the community and was an active member of a Mardi Gras organization, including serving as Past President and on the Executive Board.  He was also a member of the Mobile Georgia Tech Alumni organization.  One of his memorable roles was as the neighborhood Easter Bunny.

Dick met his college sweetheart, Beverly Thompson Swanson, at West Georgia University, beginning a loving partnership that lasted 50 years.  Together they shared a committment to education and to Georgia Tech, leading Dick to establish the Beverly T. and Richard S. Swanson Scholarship thus creating opportunities for future generations of students.

Dick was blessed to find love again, marrying Donna Coover Swanson, who survives him.  For more than 5 years Dick was a loving and devoted caregiver for Donna’s mother.

He is also survived by brothers James (Jim) Herbert Swanson III (Deborah), Scott Swanson, and Mark Swanson, and several nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many dear friends.

Dick will be remembered for his quick wit, infectious sense of humor, and unfailing cheerfulness.  He had a gift for making others laugh, feel welcome, and enjoy life’s pleasures.  His warmth, generosity, friendship, and sunny outlook touched many lives.  He leaves a legacy of laughter, kindness, and enduring friendships that will be treasured by all who knew him,

A service will be held at Trinity Presbyterian Church, Fairhope, Alabama on Wednesday June 24, 2026 at 2 pm with a reception following.  The service will also be streamed on YouTube.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the charity of your choice, or to the Beverly T. And Richard S. Swanson Scholarship.