1952  -  May 17, 2008

Ray died of a tragic boating accident on Old Hickory Lake, and his body was not recovered from the waters until five days later.  Our friend was at all the functions we have had as a class since the 35^th reunion in 2005, making his passing all the more painful for us.

Ray's funeral was wonderfully done and beautiful, with over 220 people attending.  Several of his friends from the Maplewood Class of 1970 were in attendance, and even some from other year classes.

Ray loved people, and testimony after testimony showed that.  Everyone had loving, fun stories to tell about him. Clearly, the world is a colder place with his passing.

Below is Ray’s obituary published in The Tennessean:

SWATZELL, E. Ray "Cowboy" Age 55 of Hendersonville, much loved husband and devoted brother, went home to his heavenly father on May 17, 2008 after a boating accident on Old Hickory Lake.  He is preceded in death by his parents, Ray Odell and Louise Fykes Swatzell.  Survivors include his wife, Bette Carter Swatzell (aka Booger); brother, Ronald Swatzell; brother-in-law, Charles Hankins; sister-in-law, Georgia Hankins; aunt and uncle, Joyce and Bobby Lindsey; several nieces, nephews and cousins.  He was a graduate of Maplewood High School and a retired truck driver.  He resided on the lake and loved boating.  He was married in Hawaii and loved traveling in the US as well as abroad.  His love for life was envied and cherished by his numerous surprise birthday parties.  His charismatic and gregarious personality made him a person that never met a stranger and was truly considered "one of a kind".  He will sadly be missed by many friends and family and will remain in our hearts forever.  A celebration of Cowboy's life will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, May 29, 2008 at the Forest Lawn Chapel.  Interment to follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens.  Visitation will be at 10 a.m. until service time Thursday.  Arrangements by FOREST LAWN FUNERAL HOME, (615) 859-5279

--Posted July 6, 2008