Doyne Willis Swinford

Doyne W. Swinford, 81, of Indianapolis, Indiana, passed peacefully at home on February 15, 2026 from Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP). He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who is survived by his wife, Lynne, son, Simeon Peebler, and a very large circle of family, friends and former students.

Doyne was born in Clinton, Indiana, to Elmer Beall Swinford and Bessie Marie Rusmisel Swinford on October 9, 1944. He had older brothers, but he was closest in age to his beloved sister, Doris Farrington, who lives in Clinton to this day. He graduated from Indiana State University majoring in Latin and English which prepared him for teaching in Indiana public schools his entire professional career, including Manual, Howe, and Arsenal Technical. He married his first wife, Margaret, in 1968 and they moved to Indianapolis, where Doyne cared for her until her passing from complications of Diabetes. Doyne married Lynne in 1995, and theirs was a love story for the ages. He carried her through her battle with cancer and she carried him through the stages of Progressive Supranuclear Palsy. Lynne and Doyne adopted their son, Simeon, who completed their beautiful family.

As an active member of Second Presbyterian Church for over 50 years, Doyne served as a Deacon, Landscape chief volunteer for over 20 years, and played the organ each Sunday in Chapel Service of Communion and Wholeness for 25 years. He was awarded “honorary” graduate of Arsenal Technical High School and was a member of Arsenal Tech retired teachers association.

Doyne had a sharp country wit, elegant southern charm, and a great passion for gardening, which was showcased in his own yard to the delight of all. His lifelong love of music and love of playing the piano and organ was often put to great use, both at home and for many events over the years. His classical education made him an expert in ancient western civilization, and he brought that into the present day with generations of students. He taught not only Latin but instilled in students lessons in life that are essential, often with great humor. Many have noted that Doyne was a teacher who made all the difference in the world. Doyne made things all around him more beautiful; a gardener in life, in the world, and in spirit. While he endured many hardships along the way, God’s grace was always present, and he exemplified this as he always gave more of himself than he ever expected in return. His marriage to Lynne brought light to his world, and the both of them worked like a perfectly choreographed dancing team in service to others, with joyful passion for kindness and always looking forward to what Spring may bring. Doyne was not only amazing with people but also notably an animal whisperer -- to the sweet pair of doggies many may remember, Laverne and Shirley, and perhaps reluctantly, but eventually with his whole heart, to several lost cats who ended up finding a home in his garage.

Doyne was predeceased by his parents, first wife Margaret, brothers Leland, Carl, and Warren. He is survived by wife Lynne, son Simeon Peebler (Kirsten Bedway), grandson Luke Peebler, sister Doris Farrington (Fred), sisters-in-law Ruth Ann Swinford, Sally Swinford, Lillian Webb, Judy Swinford, and several nieces and nephews. Doyne had many caregivers who helped make his last few years more joyful. Special thanks to Deloris Foster, caregiver, who loved Doyne deeply and shared many days of laughter.

Services will be held on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, (Lynne and Doyne’s wedding anniversary), at Second Presbyterian Church, located at 7700 N. Meridian Street, Indianapolis, IN 46260, with a calling in the Parlor from 12:00 pm – 2:30 pm, followed by a memorial service at 2:30pm in the Sanctuary. All are welcome. In lieu of flowers, please make memorial gifts to Second Presbyterian Church or to the charity of your choice.

Leppert Mortuary – Nora Chapel assisting with arrangements. To share a memory or condolence, please visit www.leppertmortuary.com.