Gregory Ray Swift, 76, passed away April 26, 2024, at his home in Buena Park, 6 years after suffering a debilitating stroke & 7 weeks after a severe kidney illness. Greg is survived by Beth, his wife of nearly 54 years, their four daughters (Maggie Gallego, Erin Kunkle, Katie Chavez, & Anna Brenning), fourteen grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, brother Tim Swift, and stepsister Debbi Steiner.
Born in Long Beach to Frank Swift & Ruth Miller Swift and raised in Buena Park, Greg loved the beach. He grew up surfing, playing the guitar, and running cross country at Buena Park High School. After attending Long Beach State, he graduated with a BA in Psychology. Talbot Seminary was next, graduating with a M.Div. in Practical Theology. He was a youth pastor for 10 years, then acquired a Psychology MA from Pepperdine. He was a Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist for the next 35 years.
Greg and Beth both grew up in Buena Park and the 1st Baptist Church there, where they were married in 1970. Greg loved the Lord, loved his wife and large family, and was a truly kind, patient, encouraging man; very supportive of Beth as she ran for and served on the local school board and City Council. His memorial service is May 11 at 10:30 AM at Neighbors & Nations Community Church, Buena Park.
