Joseph Robert Swift

a dedicated leader and cherished family man, passed away on May 8, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born on August 20, 1943, in Pittston, Pennsylvania, Joe lived a life marked by unwavering commitment to both his career and his family, which he considered his proudest accomplishments.

Joe was predeceased by his beloved wife, Helen Louise (Crist) Swift; his parents, Joseph T. and Margaret (Dubiel) Swift; his brother William T. Swift; and his grandchildren Hunter and Catherine.

Joe moved to Locust Point, Baltimore when he was 3. He loved to tell stories of how great it was to grow up there. Also known as ‘Bobby’, Joe stayed close to his childhood friends throughout his life. His love of dance in high school led to him becoming a regular dancer on the Buddy Dean Show where he also was a committee member.

Joe’s career originally started at GE Lock Insulator as a computer programmer and soared from there. He started his own company, Swift & Associates Inc, an information processing systems company specializing in cemetery management systems. In 1975 he was offered the position of Executive Director Catholic Cemeteries Archdiocese of Washington, which further launched his career in the cemetery industry.

After moving to Rhode Island, Joe served as the President of Highland Memorial Park in Johnston, a role in which he demonstrated steadfast leadership and deep respect for his community. His dedication also extended beyond the cemetery as he assumed the presidency of the New England Cemetery Association and, at the time of his passing, was serving as its Treasurer. He was also a member of the Rhode Island Cemetery Association where he served on the board as Legislative Liaison. His professional journey reflected a profound sense of service and excellence, earning him great respect within the industry.

A man of varied interests, Joe was an active member and recent President of the Johnston Lions Club and involved with various volunteer and charitable organizations within the community. He cherished opportunities to engage with and support those around him. Joe also had a love of spending time with his family, boating, traveling, fishing, camping, and especially loved going to the casino with his children and grandchildren.

Joe's legacy is beautifully carried on by his devoted family. He is survived by his children, Kimberly A. Carroll (Steve), Sean R. Swift (Nicole), Kristen A. Ramsey (Dan), Robynne M. Quinn (Kevin), and Heather Pivec; his sister Theresa Swift Purser (Ben); his brother John J. Swift (Lillian); and his sister Denise Swift Rosen (Ronald). He also leaves behind treasured grandchildren: Christopher (Megan), Ryan, Brittany (Paulo), Bobby (Natalie), Stevie (Siraj), Jackson, Maddy, Emma, Margaret, James, Julia, Kayleigh (Mark), and Nolan; and great-grandchildren, Charlotte, Cooper, Liam, Claire, Kate, Livia, Evie, and Maverick. He is also survived by Benjamin, his godson and nephew; Cortney, his goddaughter and niece; and nephews and niece Erik, Matt, Karen and Greg.

A funeral service to honor Joe's life will be held on May 17, 2026, at 1pm in the Mausoleum Chapel at Highland Memorial Park, 1 Rhode Island Avenue, Johnston. Relatives and friends are invited to gather at the entrance of the cemetery at 12:45pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Providence Rescue Mission https://www.providencerescuemission.org/donate.