Willis Swanson

Willis Swanson, age 89 of Murphy, NC passed away Tuesday, November 14, 2023.

He was a native and lifelong resident of Cherokee County, NC and the son of the late William "W.C." Cleveland and Martha Jane Ryder Swanson. Willis was a US Navy veteran. He was a supervisor in the mill industry. Willis enjoyed woodworking, gardening and knitting. He loved his fur babies.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one son, Greg Swanson; three brothers, Harvey, Wendall and Bill Swanson; and four sisters, Dot Summitt, Susie Underwood, Ellavee Belue and Ruth Fowler.

He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Elizabeth Ledford Swanson, also known as "Mama Liz"; three sons, Jeremy Swanson (Renee) of Murphy, Mike Swanson (Annette) of Lenoir, NC and Mark Swanson (Rachel) of Charlotte, NC; three daughters, Leesa Panter (Ricky) of Murphy, Christy Taylor of Murphy and Kitty Taylor (Greg Abernathy) of Blue Ridge, GA; two brothers, Verlin Swanson (Nyoka) of Inman, SC and Kenneth Swanson of Murphy; two sisters, Emma Tanner (Junior) of Murphy and Jane Tanner of Murphy; and grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.

No services are planned at this time.

Townson-Rose Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.