Terresa Betty-Jay Swanegan

Terresa Betty-Jay Swanegan, age 76, of Indianapolis, Indiana, was a woman of remarkable strength, unwavering faith, keen intelligence, and extraordinary determination. Throughout her life, she met every challenge with courage and conviction, inspiring those around her to pursue their dreams with perseverance, confidence, and grace.

Terresa’s accomplishments reflected her dedication, discipline, and lifelong pursuit of excellence. In 1984, she earned her Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) credential and devoted herself to caring for others through her profession. Never one to stop growing or learning, she later earned her master’s degree in 2013, demonstrating her belief that purpose, education, and personal growth know no age limit. Her perseverance and determination stand as a lasting testimony to what can be accomplished through faith and hard work.

Those who knew Terresa will forever remember her quick wit, infectious laughter, and wonderfully outspoken spirit. She possessed a rare gift for bringing joy into any room she entered, lightening difficult moments with humor, and speaking her mind with honesty, confidence, and conviction. Her laughter was contagious, her presence unforgettable, and her love deeply felt.

A devoted Christian and God-fearing woman, Terresa’s faith was the foundation upon which she built her life. She trusted deeply in God’s promises and carried herself with a steadfast belief that all things were possible through Him. Her faith was not merely something she professed—it was something she lived each day through her compassion, resilience, and commitment to serving others.

For many years, Terresa was a faithful and devoted member of Immanuel Presbyterian Church, where she worshiped, served, and cultivated lifelong friendships within the household of faith. Following the unification of Immanuel Presbyterian Church and Witherspoon Presbyterian Church into one congregation, she continued her spiritual journey as a faithful member of Witherspoon Presbyterian Church. There, she faithfully served as a Deacon, offering her time, gifts, compassion, and leadership in service to both the congregation and the wider community. Whether caring for others, extending hospitality, or supporting the ministry of the church, Deacon Swanegan embodied the spirit of Christian service and remained committed to the church she loved and the God she faithfully served.

Above all else, Terresa cherished her family. She leaves to celebrate her life and cherish her memory her beloved sisters, Daisy Lor Minor and Tanya Mitchell; her children, LaRonn Swanegan and Deaunka Harris; her treasured grandchildren, DaeVon, Nya, Kyran, and Kyronn; along with a host of extended family members, friends, church family, and loved ones whose lives were enriched by her presence. She also leaves behind her faithful companion, Brutus, whom she loved dearly and cared for with unwavering affection.

As we gather to honor and remember Terresa, we do so with both sorrow and gratitude—sorrow because we will miss her presence among us, and gratitude because we were blessed to know, love, and share in her remarkable life. While her absence leaves an emptiness in our hearts, her memory remains a gift that death cannot diminish and time cannot erase. The stories she shared, the laughter she inspired, the wisdom she imparted, and the love she gave so freely will continue to sustain and encourage all who knew her.

In moments of grief, we are reminded of God’s enduring promise that those who place their trust in Him are never truly lost. Though we can no longer see her smile or hear her voice, we find comfort in knowing that she now rests safely in the loving embrace of her Savior. Her earthly labor is complete; her eternal joy has begun.

The Apostle Paul declared, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7), and those words beautifully reflect the life Terresa lived. She fought faithfully, loved generously, laughed freely, and persevered courageously. Her legacy of faith, compassion, resilience, service, and strength will continue to live on in the lives of her family, her church, and all who were blessed to walk alongside her.

And so, even as we grieve, we do not grieve without hope. We trust in the promise of the resurrection and the assurance that one day, by God’s grace, we shall meet again. Until that glorious reunion, we give thanks for a life well lived, a faith well kept, and a witness that continues to shine.

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23

May her memory forever be a blessing, and may her light continue to shine in the hearts of all who loved her. Amen.

Visitation will be held at Witherspoon Presbyterian Church, 3535 W Kessler Blvd N Dr, Indianapolis, IN 46222, US, on June 4, 2026, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, with a Celebration of Life service at 12:00 pm.