Dear Presbytery Family:
It is with sadness and hope that I share the news that Bert C. Swearingen, a retired member of the Presbytery of St. Augustine, died suddenly on Sunday, February 23, while in the hospital in Fernandina Beach. Bert and his wife Barbara were married for more than 57 years. He is also survived by two sons, a sister, and brother.
Bert was born and raised in Jacksonville, attended Lakewood Presbyterian Church, and graduated from Jacksonville University. Hearing the call to ministry, he attended Columbia Theological Seminary and received his degree in 1965. After serving churches in several states, Bert and Barbara retired and moved back to North Florida. He was asked to serve the Northside Presbyterian Church as an interim for a few months, which turned into a 13 year stated supply pastor relationship. While in our presbytery, Bert was known as kind, gentle and welcoming. A special area of his service was to Camp Montgomery.
Bert was a member of the Academy of Parish Clergy for over 30 years, a moderator of the Presbytery of Savannah, and enjoyed many interests and hobbies, including carpentry, woodworking, and historical literature/fiction.
The names and locations of the churches Bert served are described in more detail in his obituary, which you will find
linked here
. His obituary encourages those who feel led to make a gift in his name to Montgomery Presbyterian Conference Center or to Dogwood Acres in Florida Presbytery.
A small family service was held at Evergreen Cemetery on February 27 (Rev. Doug Ganyo, officiating). You may send expressions of sympathy and care to Barbara at this address:
95002 Nanny Pl.
Fernandina Beach, FL
32034-9475
We thank God for Bert’s life and ministry and all that was so special about him. We know that he has now been received into the arms of God’s mercy and that he knows heavenly peace and joy that we can only imagine. We pray for the Lord’s comfort and strength for Barbara, his sons, and all who feel his loss most deeply. We are grateful for the gift of faith that reminds us that nothing in life or in death can separate us from the love of God we know in Jesus Christ, Amen.
In sure and certain hope of the resurrection to eternal life,
Rev. Sandra Hedrick
Stated Clerk
Presbytery of St. Augustine
