Annette Marie Swearingen

Annette Marie Swearingen died on Sunday evening, June 7, 2026, after a long illness, surrounded by her family and friends. She was 82.  She was born on Aug. 1, 1943, in Rooks County, Kansas, to Edmond and Alma Roy, whose families had immigrated from Quebec, Canada. Orphaned as a small child, she was raised in Kansas City by her aunt and uncle, Paul and Zella Rickard. However, she always remained close to her five siblings, from whom she was separated when her parents died.

After graduating in 1961 from St. Joseph’s Catholic High School in Shawnee, she married Patrick Callahan. They had three children: Patrick Jr., Jennifer and Kim. They later divorced.  In the early 1970s she worked at Western Electric, where she met Carl Swearingen. They wed in 1972 and lived in Wellsville for many years before moving to the Kansas City area. They were married for 54 years.  She was a stay-at-home mom when her kids were young and a Girl Scout leader. She then worked a variety of jobs, where she made many friends from all around the world.

She loved to travel, visiting every state and Europe. She particularly enjoyed Hawaii and trips focused on American history.  She and her husband spent several years restoring a mid-19th century home in East Lawrence.  She loved all dogs, particularly her West Highland terrier Molly and Marco the Chihuahua; everything associated with the KU Jayhawks; community theater; family reunions; antique glassware; hosting neighborhood Christmas parties; and enjoying wine and conversation with friends.

In addition to her husband and children, she is survived by son-in-law Toby; daughter-in-law Peggy; two sisters, Karen and Gerry; special friends Erin and Cora; six grandchildren, Ashley, Amanda, Abby, Emily, Brian and Lauren; 11 great-grandchildren; and numerous beloved nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in her name to the Humane Society or to an animal rescue organization of your choosing or to Theatre Lawrence.

Services are pending at Amos Funeral Home in Shawnee and will be announced at a later date.