Barbara Swagerty

Ms. Barbara June Seidel Swagerty, 92, a longtime Abilene resident and philanthropist, died September 11, 2024 in Abilene.

 Barbara was born on July 19, 1932 in Coleman, Texas to Herbert A. Seidel and Bell Jones Seidel. She was educated in Abilene, TX and Tulsa, OK. She was a graduate of Central High in Tulsa; she received her Bachelor Science degree and Masters of Education from McMurry University. She received an Honorary Doctorate in Humanities from McMurry in 2018. 

 Barbara’s career included working at the Timex Watch Plant and Mid-Tex Supply. She was an educator for 27 years - Hamby Elementary School, McMurry College, Coleman High School, Putnam High School, and Abilene ISD. She was a property manager for 35 years for Herbert and Bell Seidel’s Estate as well as a Real Estate Agent for 11 years. She also was a City Recreation Supervisor and coached tennis, basketball, volleyball, track and field.

 Anyone who knew Barbara also knew of her vibrant impact to the community. She was a member of St. Paul United Methodist Church for 87 years and sang in the choir for over 30 years. She was a member of Sweet Adelines, a life member of USTA, member of Abilene Women’s Club, Secretary of McMurry University Alumni Board. She was a substitute Sunday School teacher, sponsor of T I P social club at McMurry University, member of Beta Sigma Phi, Zi Kappa Beta Exemplar. Barbara played tennis on Abilene tennis courts for 70 years. She was the recipient of six team state championships (sectionals) and was on a team that went to nationals in Tucson, Arizona. She was the president of the Abilene Women’s Tennis Association for 2 years and Tournament Director of McMurry Homecoming Tennis Tournament for 7 years. The Seidel Swagerty Tennis Center was built in 2005 on the campus of McMurry University.

 Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, Herbert A. and Emma Bell Jones Seidel; former husband, William E. Swagerty; her son, William Alan Swagerty, and her brother, Herbert A. Seidel, Jr. Barbara loved her brother (Sonny) dearly and was very proud of his accomplishments as a Petroleum Engineer at Sun Oil, where he worked for 35 years. She talked often about Sonny’s affinity for computers and love of music, telling friends how he would play the violin to relax.

 Survivors include nieces, Mary Kay Seidel Greaves and B.J. Greaves of Waco, and Janelle Seidel Collins and Bill Collins of Denton. Great nephews and nieces, Jamie Greaves, Sarah Greaves Jackson and Andrew Jackson, Trey Collins, Mary Collins and Gary Furlong, great-great niece and nephew, Emma, and Ryan Jackson.

 Barbara was blessed by her many friends and neighbors. She treasured and appreciated their love and support over the years. She wanted to recognize Susan and Curtis Pittman, Donna and Paul Schnitman, Lashara and Andy Nieland, Allison and Derik Payden, Don and Martha McKey who were especially cherished during the last several years of her life. 

 Barbara appreciated the friendships she developed with her Meals on Wheels volunteers who brought her meals each weekday.

 Visiting Angels and the individuals with Hendrix Hospice were critical for the comfort of Barbara prior to her departure to heaven.

 Barbara has supported four organizations in the past. In lieu of flowers, she encourages the community to support the following organizations:

 Meals on Wheels: 717 North 10th Street, Abilene, 79601

 St. Paul Methodist Church: 525 Beech Street, Abilene, 79601

 Barbara Seidel Swagerty Endowed Scholarship:

1 McMurry University #938, Abilene, 79697

 Community Foundation of Abilene: 850 North 1st Street, Abilene, 79601

 The family wishes to thank all those that filled Barbara’s life with Faith, Love, and Joy. Please join us for a reception celebrating Barbara’s life after the graveside services. The reception will be held at Garrison United Methodist Campus Center, McMurry University, Mabee Room A.