Jo Alice Swyden

Jo Alice Swyden, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, cousin, and friend to so many, passed away peacefully in the loving arms of family, at the age of 100, on December 10, 2025.

Born in Drumright, Oklahoma on April 17, 1925, she was the youngest of eight children born to parents Meeble and Salema Kraker and a large, loving extended Lebanese family. Jo was especially proud of her supportive and endearing family. Growing up, her parents afforded her and her siblings a wonderful home life, full of joy and family. Her father, along with family, owned a department store in town, Kraker Brothers. Jo often remembered with pride the beautiful clothing that she and her siblings enjoyed throughout their childhood.

Jo’s parents knew that providing her with an education was important for her future. Along with her sister Jeanette, she attended Oklahoma State University and Hills Business College. She then became a legal secretary to well-regarded attorneys in Oklahoma City, which work she remained proud of throughout her life.

Shortly after the end of World War II, she attended a Lebanese dance where she met the love of her life, Louis (“Louie”) Edward Swyden. Louie showered her with flowers, chocolates, and cards for months, until the family convinced her to accept his overtures. They were wed in 1947 and lived in Kansas City, Missouri, where Louie operated Swyden Cleaners for many years. Together, they raised three wonderful children and had a beautiful marriage and life until his passing in 1986.

Jo dedicated her life to her family. Her greatest joy was spending time with her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and her large extended family, who she regarded as her immediate family. She was a member of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, where she was a member of the Trinity Guild and Alter Guild for many years. She especially enjoyed holiday gatherings with family and preparing delicious meals. Many fond memories were made with her children and grandchildren. In April 2025, she celebrated her 100th birthday with family and many friends, who were the joy of her long, happy life.

Jo Alice is survived by her three children, Connie Jo Haug (Larry), Louis “Louie” Edward Swyden, Jr. (Suzie), and Donna Lynn James; her grandchildren, Katherine Myers (Robert), David Haug, Jacqlyn Macis (Ted), Alyson Burnett (Ryan), and Christi James; and her great-grandchildren, Cecilia and Penelope; who all loved her so dearly.

She leaves behind countless beloved family and friends, who she will undoubtedly watch over, along with all of her loved ones she is now reunited with.

Her family is deeply grateful for the love and compassion given to our mother from Marchia Burns and Leslie Bitter, who were more than caregivers, they have become part of our family.

Jo Alice Swyden was our sunshine, and now that her sun has set, she leaves behind a beautiful legacy.

Donations in memory of Jo Alice Swyden may be made to St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church and Harvesters.

Services will be held on December 17, 2025, at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, 6401 Wornall Terrace, Kansas City, MO 64113. Visitation will be from 10:00 am to 11:00 am with the funeral service following from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.

A luncheon/reception is scheduled to take place from 12:00 pm to 2:30 pm, with the venue to be announced at the service. The committal service will be held at Mount Moriah Cemetery South, 10507 Holmes Road, Kansas City, MO 64131, from 3:00 pm to 3:30 pm.