Beth Ann Swain

Beth was born April 2, 1958 to parents Edward and Lucille Murphy. She was raised in Massapequa, New York with her brother and four sisters. Their family enjoyed trips to the beach, hiking upstate New York, going to museums and outings, having family gatherings and sharing summer vacations in Maine. A graduate of Massapequa High School in 1976, she then moved to Maine in 1978 with her sister Kala and Aunt Marie to open The Fabric Garden in Madison, Maine.

It was in Maine that she met the love of her life, Shaun M. Swain, husband of 35 years. They married in July, 1980 and proudly welcomed their son Jonathan S. Swain to the world the following July. They began their life together in Industry, Maine, later laying down roots in Madison, Maine. Beth loved nothing more than being a wife and mother and spending time with her family. She especially enjoyed spending time with Shaun at their cabin in Rangeley, Maine. One of the most joyous moments of Beth’s life was when her son Jonathan married Larissa (Sigurdsen) Swain.

Beth was a devout Christian and faithful member of Christ Community Fellowship in Madison, Maine, where she worked as church secretary until late last year. She lived her life as the Lord intended: with a joyous, giving heart and unending willingness to help others. She genuinely cared about those around her, and those in need. Those who knew Beth basked in the light of her graciousness, generosity and gentle, loving spirit. She loved baking and cooking, always making treats for those who could use a smile. Through her church, Beth was active in many prayer groups and Bible studies. She was also active in several cancer support groups, where she shared her love of Christ and His message of hope.

Beth is survived by her beloved husband Shaun Swain, their cherished son Jonathan Swain and wife, Larissa, mother Lucille Murphy, siblings Michaela Murphy, Maura Murphy, Celia Murphy, Edward Christopher Murphy and his wife Norma, and Mary Murphy. She leaves behind many adored nieces, nephews, cousins, family members, countless friends, and sisters and brothers in Christ.

She is predeceased by father Edward J. Murphy, aunts Marie Priebe and Helene Messina, uncle Martin Priebe and cousin Thaddeus Messina, and grandparents Martin and Josephine Priebe, Margaret (Murphy) Hogan, and Edward J Murphy, Sr.

While the loss of Beth here on earth is profound, her family and friends are grateful that her pain has ended and she now dwells in the Kingdom of Heaven, in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, September 3, 2015 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. at Smart & Edwards Funeral Home, 183 Madison Ave., Skowhegan, Maine. A funeral will be held on Friday September 4, 2015 at 11 a.m. with Pastor Tobin Curtis Officiating, burial will follow the service at the Evergreen Cemetery in Rangeley, Maine.

Donations may be made in in Beth’s memory to the Christ Community Fellowship, 43 Maple St., Madison, Maine 04950