[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 132 (Tuesday, August 1, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E749-E750]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   TRIBUTE TO DEACON BENJAMIN SWINTON

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. JAMES E. CLYBURN

                           of south carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, August 1, 2023

  Mr. CLYBURN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a faithful 
servant, trusted counselor, and cherished community leader, Deacon 
Benjamin ``Ben'' Swinton. Deacon Swinton, a lifelong friend and 
supporter, transitioned from this life on July 26, 2023, in Sumter, 
South Carolina. His compassion and kindness will be sorely missed.
  Mr. Benjamin Swinton was born on September 10, 1929, in Sumter, South 
Carolina. He attended Sumter City Schools and graduated from Lincoln 
High School in 1954, where he was a gifted athlete. Upon graduating 
high school, Mr. Swinton pursued higher education at North Carolina A&T 
University and completed his coursework at Morris College in Sumter, 
graduating Magnum Cum Laude. Mr. Swinton also dutifully served our 
nation in the United States Army.
  After graduating from Morris College, Mr. Swinton pursued a career in 
public service. He served as a counselor and planner at the Wateree 
Community Actions Agency before joining the South Carolina Vocational 
Rehabilitation Center, where he served for 21 years before his 
retirement. In these capacities, Mr. Swinton was uplifting to many 
members of the Sumter community.
  Deacon Swinton was a man of faith. He was a lifelong member of the 
Salem Missionary Baptist Church and served the Church as a Sunday 
School teacher, a combined choir member, the Director of Christian 
Education, and Sunday School Superintendent. Additionally, he served on 
the Deacon Board with distinction.
  Mr. Swinton was also a dedicated family man. He is survived by his 
loving wife, Dollie Woods Swinton to whom he was married for 68 years. 
Together they had 1 son, Benjamin Anthony Swinton, who preceded him in 
death. He is also survived by a daughter, Juanita Balls Williams, 
brothers Harry W. Swinton and Roosevelt (Naomi) Swinton, and many 
grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

[[Page E750]]

  Mr, Speaker, I ask that our colleagues join me in honoring the 
remarkable life of Deacon Benjamin Swinton. His long life of service as 
a counselor and spiritual leader made an indelible impact on his 
community and will be remembered by all who were fortunate to know him.

                          ____________________