November 25, 1921 - November 19, 2007

Mother Mary L. Swanson has gone home to be  with Jesus.

Obituary...

She was born November 25, 1921 in Greenville South Carolina to Huston and Willie Blanche Sullivan Kilgore.  Huston, Willie, daughter  Mary and older Brother William moved from Greenville to Cincinnati, Ohio.  Eventually making their church home at the Antioch Fire Baptized Holiness Church.  Here, Mother Swanson accepted the Lord at an early age.  Later on during the Depression, Mr. and Mrs. Kilgore took employment in Northern Kentucky, at a horse farm.  Mary often spoke fondly of this time, how she and her Brother William, enjoyed the country living and thrived during their time there.  While in Kentucky, Mother Swanson's father was impressed by the holy ghost to begin his work as an Evangelist.  The family returned to Cincinnati, where he began his ministry in earnest. 

Mother Swanson finished her formal education while living in Cincinnati.  Her father was again impressed to relocate his family.  With prayerful meditation, the Kilgore's moved to Middletown, Ohio where the Shiloh Tabernacle Church was established.  Mother Swanson was instrumental in supporting this work, along with her mother and brother.  She loved to sing and she frequently traveled with her family providing songs of inspiration. 

In 1968 Mother Swanson married Bishop Abraham IJ Swanson XII.  With this union, she became First Lady and Mother of BibleWay Church of God in Christ in Cincinnati Ohio. Mother Swanson was a private person, but she found peace, fulfillment and praised the lord with music, her testimony and prayers .  She can often be heard lifting up her voice and singing her favorite songs, "There's nothing like the Holy Spirit," and " I Want To Live So God Can Use Me." Also joining with Bishop Swanson  in singing, "What Do You Say About Jesus?" She took pride in maintaining an organized, neat home for her husband.  She also took pride in making sure that her husband's clothes were coordinated and that he was properly attired for his many appointments.  In later years, poor health prevented her from attending church and participating in many activities she enjoyed so much. 

We love and miss you dearly!

Bro. Richard and Elect Lady Annetta Barnes

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