Thelma Gardner Swaye

A lifelong area resident, Thelma was the daughter of the late Frank and Ethel (Gardner) Coop. She was a graduate of New Bedford High School and received her LPN degree from Diman Regional Vocational Nursing School.

A caring and nurturing person, she took care of many patients at St. Luke’s Hospital in special care pediatrics for 25 years, retiring in 1993.

An active, lifelong member of St. Martin’s Episcopal Church, Thelma could often be seen singing in the choir, helping with church suppers and the thrift shop. She was a member of the St. Martin’s Over The Hill Gang. She was an active member of the Mt. Carmel Seniors, where she enjoyed traveling with the group.

She is survived by her children, Stephen B. Swaye and his wife Pamela A. and Cathy A. Carlisle of New Bedford; her grandchildren, Joshua A. Swaye and his wife Elizabeth, Benjamin S. Swaye and Katie Carlisle; a great-granddaughter, Arabelle; her niece, Marsha Torres; and dear friends, Linda and Crystal.

Her Requiem Eucharist will be held on Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at 10am in St. Martin’s Episcopal Church, 136 Rivet St., New Bedford. Relatives and friends invited. Burial will be private. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Martin’s Episcopal Church, 136 Rivet St., New Bedford, MA 02744.

Arrangements are in the care of Waring-Sullivan Home at Dartmouth. For online tributes, please visit: www.waring-sullivan.com