James Carlin Swack Jr.

James Carlin Swack Jr., lovingly known as Jim, Dad, Daddy, and Papa Swack, passed away on Thanksgiving Day, November 28, 2024, at Summit Hospital following a sudden illness. He was surrounded by his devoted children and several grandchildren who deeply loved him.

Born on March 28, 1932, in Nashville, Tennessee, Jim was the son of the late James Carlin Swack Sr. and Josie Greenwood Swack. He was the fourth of six children, preceded in death by his siblings Edna Davis, Elba Lucas, Darlene Earp, and Johnny Swack. He is survived by his sister, Joan Tipton.

Jim graduated from West End High School and went on to serve his country in the United States Navy during the Korean War as an airplane mechanic on the seaplane tender USS Pine Island (AV-12). For his service, he was awarded the China Service Medal and the National Defense Medal.

In August 1955, Jim earned his law degree from Cumberland University and obtained his law license on March 13, 1959. He spent 38 years working for State Farm Insurance as an auto claims specialist, demonstrating dedication and professionalism throughout his career. After retiring, Jim continued to work part-time at Castner Knott in the men's shoe department and later at Home Depot.

A devout Christian, Jim was an active member of the Church of Christ throughout his life. For over 40 years, he was a beloved member of Donelson Church of Christ, where he joyfully attended services and volunteered at the church’s Benevolence Center, assisting families in need.

Jim was also very involved in the Boy Scouts of America for nearly 20 years, dedicating countless hours to supporting Troop 30 of Donelson as an Assistant Scoutmaster. In 1987 he was awarded the Silver Beaver award, the highest honor a local Boy Scouts of America (BSA) council can give to a volunteer leader. His guidance and enthusiasm enriched the lives of many young scouts during the years of his involvement with Scouting.

On June 16, 1954, Jim married the love of his life, Grace Doris Russell. Their marriage lasted 56 beautiful years until Grace passed away on August 9, 2020, due to complications of dementia. Together, they adopted two children, James Carlin Swack III (Jim) in 1964 and Amanda Kay Swack in 1968. Jim is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, James III and Janet Swack, and his daughter and son-in-law, Amanda Kay and Richard Morrow.

To his family, Jim was affectionately known as Papa Swack. He was a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren: Jessica Dillard, Matthew Vetetoe, Billy Kingsley, Victoria Harris, Sarah Mansfield, Aaron Mansfield, and Riki Morrow. He cherished his 11 great-grandchildren: Peyton, Lexi, Addie, Kayden, Jaxson, Lucy, Harper, Grayson, Stella, Cameron, and Hope.

Jim will be remembered as a kind, caring, and loving soul, known for his big smile that brightened the lives of everyone he encountered. His unwavering love and devotion to his family, church, and community will leave a lasting legacy. He will be deeply missed but forever cherished.

A gathering of family & friends for James will be held Wednesday, December 4, 2024 from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Donelson Church of Christ, 2706 Old Lebanon Pike, Nashville, TN 37214, followed by a celebration of life from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM.