Daryl Virginia Swann

Born in Miami Beach, Daryl was the only child of Robert Leonard and Doris Leonard. She graduated from Southwest Miami Senior High School and went on to earn a journalism degree from the University of Florida.

Daryl moved to Stuart in 1973, when Ernest Lyons, the late editor of the Stuart News, hired her to serve as news editor of the newspaper. This role fostered her lifelong love of words and public service.

Daryl was one of the earliest board members at Hibiscus Children's Center, which provides safe shelter and advocacy for children who are abused or neglected. She was also actively involved for many years with YMCA of the Treasure Coast and supported the Florida Oceanographic Society and the Treasure Coast Food Bank.

For nearly three decades she provided a reliable source of transportation in her various vans for her two children and dozens of their friends -- to Little League, choirs, debate competitions and countless other activities. She often traveled with "her kids" to state, regional and national events.

Daryl will be remembered as a kind person who always made you feel special, and will be missed for her love, laughter, compassion and the extravagant birthday, holiday, school and office parties she threw.

She is preceded in death by her parents and one of her daughters, Abby.

Daryl is survived by her husband, Steven Swann, daughter Kylyn Swann and son Cody Swann.

Funeral services will be announced at a future date.

Memorial contributions may be made to Treasure Coast Food Bank (stophunger.org), Friends of the Everglades (everglades.org), Florida Oceanographic (floridaocean.org) or Hibiscus Children's Center (hibiscuschildrenscenter.org).