Rodger "Sammy" Swing

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Rodger "Sammy" Swing, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Sammy passed away peacefully on February 20th, 2025, at his home on Ruff Leonard Road. He was 91 years old.

Born on Sunday, May 28th, 1933, Rodger lived a life filled with love, adventure, and dedication. At the tender age of 17, he joined the Air Force and served his country with honor during the Korean War. After his service, Rodger found a long and satisfying career with PPG Industries but never forgot the joys of simpler pursuits. A gifted storyteller with a humble demeanor, he delighted in sharing tales of his time as a semi-pro baseball player and as a former race car driver at Bowman Gray Stadium.

Rodger's love for the outdoors and his passion for fishing were rivaled only by his love for his community and church. He was an active member of the Church of Christ Arcadia, where he participated wholeheartedly in church singings and community events, sharing his strong faith and joy wherever he could. His knack for painting and solving puzzles was well-known, as was his enthusiasm for a good challenge, but he took the most pride in the stories he could share and the connections he forged.

Rodger leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication, survived by his devoted wife of 68 years, Patty Swing, and his beloved children: Todd Swing of Lexington, Tim Swing and wife Norene of Clemmons, and daughter Kelli Rapp and husband Craig of Lexington. He is lovingly remembered by his grandchildren, Ashley Bhatti and husband Satbir of Winston Salem, Sam Swing and wife Dannyell of Lexington, Tripp Swing of Lexington, Clayton Rapp of Lexington, and Maria Rapp of Lexington. Rodger was preceded in death by his parents, John and Edna Swing, his brother Clifford Swing, and his sisters Garnell Medlin, Audrey Swing, and Vivian Moody.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during a visitation on Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Davidson Funeral Home Hickory Tree Chapel. A funeral service honoring Sammy’s life will be held on Sunday, Feb. 23, at 4 p.m. at the Church of Christ Arcadia. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Silver Sneakers group Rodger's special friends, a testament to the impact Rodger had on his community.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Ben Perrell Memorial Scholarship fund through North Davidson High School C/O Kelli Rapp 205 Ben Allyn Lane Lexington, NC 27295., ensuring that Rodger's dedication to education and community spirit lives on.

Arrangements are provided by Davidson Funeral Home Hickory Tree Chapel. Rodger's spirit, warmth, and stories will be cherished forever, living on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.