Thursday, September 28, 2006

Phyllis Linehan Swanson, steadfast advocate for children


HIGH BRIDGE -- Phyllis Linehan Swanson, 64, of High Bridge died Tuesday (Sept. 26, 2006) at Hunterdon Medical Center in Raritan Township.

She was born April 15, 1942, in Clodaugh, County Cork, Ireland. She was the daughter of the late Michael Linehan.

She and her husband, L. Kenneth Swanson Jr., were married 43 years, and were High Bridge residents for 32 years.

Phyllis arrived as a 17-year old in White Plains, N.Y., where she later married and gave birth to her first two children. She lived in Plainfield for nine years, where her third and fourth children were born. Through the years, she served as a leader and volunteer with many youth organizations, such as Rolling Hills and Watchung Mt. Girl Scouts, Plainfield and High Bridge Cub Scouts, North Hunterdon Little League, High Bridge Huskies and class trips chaperone.

Phyllis was a steadfast advocate for all children.

The linen department at Hunterdon Medical Center was fortunate to have her as its leader for 27 years. She was a true friend and loved by many.

Phyllis was a member of St. Joseph's Church in High Bridge.

Survivors in addition to her husband and mother, Mary Scully Linehan of County Cork, Ireland, include a son, Michael and wife, Victoria, of Kingwood; two daughters, Tara and husband, Rick Hintz of Lebanon Township, and Patti and husband, Jim Letko of Franklin Township; nine grandchildren, Katrina, Greta, Otto and Emma Sage Hintz, Kelsy, Connor and Fiona Letko, and Ronan and Rori Swanson (and another expected); three brothers, Michael in England and Tim and Gerard in Ireland; two sisters, Betty and Paula in Ireland; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was predeceased by a son, L. Kenneth III and grandson, Griffin Patrick Letko.

The funeral will be 10 a.m. Saturday at St. Joseph's Church, High Bridge. Interment will be in Lower Valley Cemetery, Califon. Calling hours will be 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. Friday at Naughright-Scarponi Funeral Home, High Bridge.


My dear Mothers name is actually, Mary Philomenia [Linehan] Swanson, but everyone knew her as 'Phyllis' or 'Philly' or Mom or Nana...........she is deeply missed.

Emma Sage is missing her Nana. She understands that Nana has died and tells us that 'Angels carried her to heaven'. Emma Sage is also telling everyone "My Nana loves Me' over and over again,,,,,a fact that rings so true. My Mother loved children,,,,,,all children.

My Mum's family arrived a bit ago from Ireland and we are heading to my sisters to have dinner and put together photoboards, scrapbooks and a video slideshow for tomorrows calling hours and Saturday's Mass and funeral.

I am still in shock. My Mother was my dearest friend. I have a whole in my heart that is quite large, as my Mothers love for me and my love for her was great.

Please hug your children, call your parents, drop a note to a long lost friend......life is very precious and moments go fleeting by.

22 comments:

Michelle said...

My heart is still aching for you Tara Marie; I'm so sorry for the loss of your mother. Prayers to you all and many hugs.

Michelle said...

well, Michelle said it so eloquently, so ditto!
Thinking of you all...

Anonymous said...

I am so sorry Tara. You and your family are constantly on my mind. Please know that we are keeping all of you in our prayers.

Leslie said...

Thinking of you, Tara Marie and your family. I'm so sorry.

Anonymous said...

Tara Marie and Family
When I logged on tonight I was in total shock. I am so sorry for your loss. I hope that you can find some peace and comfort knowing that many are thinking of you and praying. I know that this is one of lifes most difficult things to endure. You are an amazing person and I am sure that you will gather the strenght that Emma Sage has to help you through the few days and the difficult times to come.
Hugs to all
Kay, E.J., Ryan Drake (t/21) and Kate;yn

Anonymous said...

I had a nice call with Uncle Otto a couple of nights ago.
Your mom was an amazing, lovely woman and she will be missed, greatly!
Tom and I will see you tonight.
Our girls and their husbands, and Aunt Hedy and Uncle Roy send their love and prayers.
If you need anything, please call.

Debra said...

Although you know your parents will pass before you...it still does not fill the void that they leave or the gap that seems to be there. My heart is aching so much for you. Time does heal but also reminds us daily of those that are dear to our hearts.

Hugs to you from Debra, Hope and the rest of the gang.

Jeanne said...

God bless you and my love and prayers.
Having just lost my own beloved Mother I know all too well the pain.
Big hugs and love and my deepest sympathy!
Love Jeanne ^j^
Those who live forever in our hearts are never far away.
God bless you and yours.

Anonymous said...

My heart breaks for you Tara Marie. I'm so sorry for the loss of your mother and best friend. I pray that God will help to ease some of your pain during this time. You're in my thoughts and prayers.

Hugs to you all.

Penny, Kyle and Madison

The Mom said...

Oh TM - you are in our thoughts and prayers right now. I'm so sorry for your loss. thinking of you and sending hugs your way.....

Marcie said...

I don't know what I could possibly say that hasn't already been said by so many. I share all their prayers and love for your family during this sad time.
Marcie

Anonymous said...

Thinking of you today, my friend, and sending you love and prayers.

Amy & Emma Fern

Kim Ayres said...

My thoughts are with you all

Shelley said...

Our mothers are such powerful people aren't they? They are in many ways what inspires us in our own parenting. To lose a mother is a devestating loss - even though we know that her momory will endure for generations to come. You and your family and the soul of your mum are in my prayers tonight. May the peace of the Lord be with you.

jennifergg said...

Yes. I think it's good that you are remembering, and thank you for reminding us all to remember our families, especially while it's just as easy as a phonecall or an email.

Peace to you and your family.

Felicia said...

My heart and prayers are with you and your family. I hope you will begin to find some peace soon.

Anonymous said...

Thinking of you and your family my dear friend. I know how your heart is aching.
Love,
Kei, Robert & family

Anonymous said...

I am so very, very sorry for your loss. God bless and watch over. {{{hugs}}} Dani

Kari said...

Just popping by to send you a hug Your in my thoughts ~Kari~

Kari said...

Just popping by to send you a hug Your in my thoughts ~Kari~

Unknown said...

Oh Tara,
I am so, so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my prayers.

Anne said...

Internet hugs to you, and more importantly, I'll be praying for you and your dear family. I'm sorry you lost your mom so soon!
Betty and Louise (Ds, age 4)
Your blog is an inspiration to me. Thank you!