George H. Swinney

George H. Swinney, Jr. was born on January 21, 1930 in Abilene, Texas and passed from this earth on October, 28, 2010. His parents were Bertie Evans Swinney and George H. Swinney Sr. After graduating from Abilene High School and the University of Texas he joined the United States Navy as a pilot. He served in the Hurricane Hunter Squadron out of Jacksonville, Florida. When he returned to Abilene, he joined his father in business at Swinney Glass and Paint Company. He later returned to school and received an accounting degree at Hardin-Simmons University. He earned his Certified Public Accountant designation and worked for Davis, Kinard and Company in Abilene and Marlin Mills, Inc. in Marlin, Texas. Upon returning to Abilene, George served as vice-president and office manager for Dixon Drilling Company. When this company was acquired by H L H Petroleum Corporation of Dallas, he was named president of the subsidiary in Abilene until it closed. George was working for Gerlach Oil Company when he retired. Throughout his life, George enjoyed travel, bridge, and dance clubs. He was an active member of St. Paul United Methodist Church and enjoyed working in his yard. He loved to fish for trout in the streams in and around Red River, NM and especially relished time spent with his family and friends. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Mary Len, his daughter, Kay Spiva and her husband Randy, and his granddaughter Sabrina; nieces Stefany James and Melanie Pilgrim; and one cousin, Eugene George. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Nancy Swinney Eppler, and many very dear friends. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, October 30, at The Hamil Family Funeral Home Chapel, 6449 Buffalo Gap Road in Abilene, with Dr. Eduardo Rivera and Rev. Pam Rowley officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial gifts to St. Paul United Methodist Church Television Fund, 525 Beech Street, Abilene, TX 79601, or Hendrick Hospice Care, 1682 Hickory Street, Abilene, TX 79601, or donor's favorite charity.