Rita Swan

Mary Rita Jefferson Swan, age 97, of Germantown, MD, passed away on May 5, 2017 at Tranquillity at Fredericktowne.  She was wrapped in the love and warmth of her family, near and far, at the time of her passing.

Rita was born on September 21, 1919 to Joseph and Emma (Noskey) Jefferson of St. Michaels, MD.  She is the last surviving of their eight children, all of whom, were notably descended from President Thomas Jefferson.  Rita was an avid tap dancer and singer.  She took great pride in her relationship with our Heavenly Father, cooking, her grandchildren, and great grandchildren.  She will be remembered for her strength, feistiness, sense of adventure, and her love of sweets.

Rita was preceded in death by her loving husband of 45 years, Norman Swan, as well as her father, mother, and many sisters and brothers.  She is survived by her son Donald Swan, Daughter-in-Law Grace Swan, Granddaughter Amanda (Rich) Brown and their children Richard and Grace, along with her Granddaughter Teresa (Jerry) Babcock, and their children Elias, Gavin, and Wyatt.

Funeral arrangements will be private.  Please contact the family for more information.

Rita’s family would like to thank the incredibly caring and compassionate staff of Tranquillity Assisted Living and Carroll Hospice for their endless help and support during the final season of Rita’s life.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Carroll Hospice, 292 Stoner Avenue, Westminster, MD 21157 or to the American Cancer Society.

Butterflies can’t see their wings. They can’t see how truly beautiful they are, but everyone else can.  People are like that, as well.