Rebecca Swain Obituary

Rebecca Irene Swain passed away on April 12, 2025, at the age of 82. She was born on April 8, 1943, in Alexandria, Virginia, to Haywood and Francis Smallwood. She grew up in the Delray neighborhood with her brothers, Buddy and Dale Smallwood.

She graduated from GW High School in Alexandria, Virginia.  She would eventually meet her husband, Wendell Swain, through her friend Toni Swain, who would later become her sister-in-law after marrying Wendell. They were married in Washington, D.C. and went on to have two sons, Michael Swain and Mark Swain.

In her youth, she was part of the 4-H Club in Alexandria. Irene worked as a secretary for the Alexandria school system. She also worked for the U.S. Army as a secretary for the Corps of Engineers at Fort Belvoir.

She and Wendell traveled extensively, including trips to Hawaii and Europe, and went on many cruises with groups of lifelong friends. They eventually retired in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Later, Wendell and Irene moved to St. Louis, Missouri, to be closer to their grandchildren.

She is survived by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchild, and extended family.

Michael Swain is married to Ken Russell.

Mark Swain is married to Michelle Swain, and together they have four children: Randy Gonyea, Kayla Swain, Valin Swain, and Matthew Swain. Irene was also a great-grandmother to Ally Gonyea.

She loved the holidays, especially Christmas, and always took great pride in decorating with trees, wreaths, and her many collectibles. Her holiday spirit was a big part of family traditions.

She enjoyed watching The Young and the Restless and The Bold and the Beautiful, and grew up loving The Cisco Kid, Howdy Doody, and The Lone Ranger. Even in recent years, she still watched old westerns on the weekends.

Irene loved animals and supported animal charities. Irene was a member of the Doris Day Animal Foundation for many years. She made sure the family was always surrounded by pets, including dogs, cats, birds, a bunny, and several strays over the years. She enjoyed collecting figurines — especially Precious Moments and Department 56 — as well as stuffed animals and Beanie Babies. She had a particular fondness for cat and dog figurines and anything animal related.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you please consider making a donation one of Irene’s favorite charities.

ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals)

Humane Society of the United States
(Choose “Give in honor or memory”)

Services: Private services will be held. As a service of the SCHRADER Funeral Home and Crematory, friends may sign the family's on-line guestbook at Schrader.com.