John Thomas McSwain Sr.

January 10, 1960 – March 18, 2025

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Tom McSwain of Clayton, NC, on March 18, 2025, at the age of 65. Tom was a cherished husband, devoted father, and active member of the community in his adopted state of North Carolina.

Born and raised in Macon, Georgia, Tom was the son of the late Harold Dean and Katheryne Bland McSwain. A dedicated University of Georgia Bulldog, Tom built a successful career in sales and government relations in the pavement marking industry. One of his most treasured achievements was serving as Chairman of the American Traffic Safety Services Association (2004-2006). He served proudly as Chairman of Leadership North Carolina (2011) and on various industry boards and committees. Tom was a community advocate, supporting legislation and local causes important to his family.

Tom is survived by his “lovely bride,” Shawn Scott McSwain, and their children, Whitney Mendoza (Amir, Jr.) and John Thomas (Jack) McSwain, Jr. No man was prouder of his children. He is survived by his cherished brother and sister-in-law Hal and Jill McSwain; sister-in-law Shannon Barham; brother-in-law Robert Stoddard (Thalia); nieces Deana Sumner (Travis) and Isabel McSwain; nephews Derek Stoddard, Colten Drumheller (Charline) and Jay Barham (Carmen); great-nieces Kate Boyd and Aubrey Stoddard; and parents-in-law John and Renda Scott. He was predeceased by his sister Margaretta Stoddard. Tom is also survived by many loyal friends whom he considered family.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on April 5, 2025 at 4pm at the Piazza Clubhouse at Portofino, 25 Paraggi Ct, Clayton, NC 27527. For directions or travel information, please email [email protected]. The service will be livestreamed.

In an incredible gesture of generosity, a fund has been established at the University of Georgia in Tom’s memory. The “Tom McSwain ‘Let All the Big Dawgs Eat’ Scholarship” supports students who struggle to afford adequate nutrition, allowing them to concentrate on academic success without worrying about their next meal. Tom believed that to feed people is to love them. This fund honors his passions for cooking and UGA, and his compassion for struggling youth.

Contributions can be made online or by mail to the UGA Foundation, 1 Press Place, Suite 101, Athens, GA 30601, with the fund noted on the payment. GO DAWGS!