Louise Marie (Harner) Swartz

She was born January 26, 1937, in Waynesboro, Va., a daughter of the late Roy H. Harner and Margaret Weaver Harner.

Louise is survived by her sons, Jeffery (Vickie) Swartz of Sarasota, Fla., and Bruce (Sandi) Swartz of Stuarts Draft, Va.; brothers, Arden (Beverly) Harner, David (Velma) Harner, Michael (Daphne) Harner; sister, Gloria (Leroy) Beavers; brother-in-law, Harry Brunk; sister-in-law, Joyce Showalter; brother-in-law, John (Connie) Swartz; her grandchildren, Alicia Norris of St. Petersburg, Fla., Jason (Jamie) Beever of Spring, Tx., and Hannah Swartz of Stuarts Draft, Va.; six great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Louise was preceded in death by her husband, Dennis S. Swartz; her mother, Margaret Harner; father, Roy Harner; step-mother, Mary Harner; sisters, Joann and her husband Abram Godshall, and Elsie Brunk; sister-in-law, Mary Case; brother-in-law, Ralph Showalter; and nephew, Phillip Case.

Louise spent the majority of her career as the office administrator at Drivers Heating Oil in Waynesboro, VA, where she worked for 42 years, prior to retirement. Louise was a devoted wife and mother, giving selflessly of her time, talents and energy to her family, as well as to her friends and church family.

She was devoted to Springdale Mennonite Church, serving in numerous capacities over her lifetime, including but not limited to children’s Sunday school teacher, song leader, librarian, music teacher, member of the food committee, pianist, and more.

Louise maintained a passion for music, playing the piano and organ both at home and church. She was particularly fond of four-part harmonies, singing in several groups, beginning with her two sisters at a young age, the Springdale Chorus, the Agape 4 Quartet, the Easter Cantatas, solos in the Christmas Programs, various women’s groups and the annual Harmonia Sacra gathering. Louise also enjoyed traveling with her husband, Dennis, to Gospel Music Conventions and music programs.

Louise loved flowers, especially African Violets and Iris’. She grew her own from starter plants and bulbs given to her, tenderly caring for each. She generously gave bulbs and starter shoots to anyone who shared her interest in flowers.

In addition, she loved reading, crossword puzzles, word-find puzzles and an occasional jigsaw puzzle. She was an accomplished cook and baker, growing and canning much of their garden produce.

Louise (and Dennis) lived out the Gospel with a servant’s heart. Over the years, they generously opened their home to numerous people, offering support and encouragement by ministering physically, spiritually and financially, often working quietly behind-the-scenes to serve and care for those around them.

The family would like to recognize and express sincere thanks to Kendra Weaver for her personal attention to and compassionate care for Louise while residing at the Regency at Augusta Assisted Living. In addition, thanks to the staff at the Regency at Augusta, Augusta Health Hospital and Shenandoah Nursing and Rehabilitation for their care during the final days of her life. Finally, a special thanks to family, friends and church family for the many prayers and support offered on behalf of Louise.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at Springdale Mennonite Church, 170 Hall School Road, Waynesboro, Va. 22980 on Tuesday, January 6, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Jim Hershberger officiating. A time of visitation from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Springdale Mennonite Church will precede the Celebration of Life Service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or the American Cancer Society.

Relatives and friends may share condolences and memories with the family online by visiting www.reynoldshamrickfuneralhomes.com