Gerald Don Swims, 86, of Milan, TN, formerly of Jackson, TN, passed away on September 2, 2025, at The Arbors at Dogwood Pointe.

Gerald was born on September 16, 1938, in Newbern, TN. Soon after marrying the love of his life, Betty Lowery Swims, they moved to Memphis, where he worked at MLGW. There, they formed lifelong friendships and built cherished memories with their church families at Kimball Avenue and Raleigh Church of Christ.

Gerald and Betty raised their three sons—Greg, Todd, and Andy—in the Memphis area until 1976, when they returned to Dyersburg, TN. Gerald entered the grocery business before later joining Colonial Rubber Works, where he worked until retirement. In Dyersburg, they were devoted members of the Phillip Street Church of Christ, where Gerald served faithfully as an elder.

After Betty's retirement, the couple moved to Jackson, TN, becoming members of North Jackson Church of Christ. There they enjoyed close fellowship, especially with their beloved supper club friends, and took joy in being near their grandchildren, watching them grow and thrive.

As a father, Gerald led by example. He instilled in his sons the importance of hard work and of aligning one's faith with life's ambitions. His life was a model of devotion—as a husband, a father, and a follower of Christ. Gerald and Betty also treasured traveling together and spending time with their many brothers and sisters.

Gerald was preceded in death by his loving wife of 64 years, Betty Lowery Swims; his parents, Jesse and Gladys Swims; and his siblings, Wayne Swims, Mildred Swims Fowlkes, Sue Swims Golden, and Glen Swims.

He is survived by his devoted sister, Doris Swims Downing, who provided great care and support to both Gerald and Betty. He is also survived by his three sons: Greg Swims of Ashland City, TN; Todd Swims (Missy) of Jackson, TN; and Andy Swims (Melanie) of Olive Branch, MS.

Gerald's legacy continues through his beloved grandchildren: Anne-Ashley Swims Fawcett (Ian), Adam Swims (Ashton), Aaron Swims (Molly), Dr. Weston Swims (Kaleigh), Sydney Swims Johnson (Cole), Barrett Swims, and Alex Brock Swims. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren Finley, Cason, Cannon, and Lynley Fawcett; Hudson, Lawson, Sophie, Witten, and Shepard Swims; Sabrina and Samuel Swims, Sophie Elizabeth and Sawyer Swims.

Gerald will be deeply missed by a host of extended family and friends who will forever cherish his memory.