Joann Tappy Swan

Born on October 9, 1933, to Rufus and Olga Tappy, Joann spent her early years in Orange, Virginia. She attended Mary Washington College in Fredericksburg, Virginia, where she studied home economics through her senior year. In 1954, she married Haliburton “Bernie” Swan III and moved to Culpeper, where they built their life together and raised four children. They remained married until his passing in 2000.

Joann was a devoted homemaker and later joined the workforce, working at CCA in Boston, Virginia, until her retirement. She was also an accomplished seamstress, but her true artistic talent was cross-stitch. As a member of the Culpeper Cross-Stitch Club, she enjoyed field trips with the group, shared her love of the craft, and earned awards for her beautiful work. Her family will treasure the many pieces she created with such love and care.

Joann also had a lifelong love of animals and shared a particularly special bond with her faithful companion, Fritz, who brought her great comfort and happiness.

She is survived by her children, Felix “Skeeter” Swan and his wife, Penny; Patricia Lea and her husband, Cal; and James Swan. She is also survived by her granddaughter, Alison Alt and her husband, Tyler and her great-grandchildren, Reagan, Grant, and Harrison Alt. She was predeceased by her husband, Haliburton Swan III and her son, Stuart Swan.

Joann will be remembered for her creativity, her laughter, and her love for her family. She will be deeply missed.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, September 11, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Culpeper National Cemetery, Shelter 2.