Mildred Shope Swafford, of Franklin NC went to be with the Lord on Monday, July 29, 2024- less than a week following her 100th birthday.

She was born into a large family, graduating from Franklin High School and then earning a BS degree in Elementary Education from WCU in Cullowhee. She began teaching at Maple Springs (now Union School-Macon Co) in 1944-45. This career was to embrace a total of 40 years with the Macon County School System (being out two years during the birth of her first son). She retired July 1, 1986, with a total of 115.95 sick leave days balance was to her credit at the time. She served as a principal of Salem School for the school year 1948-1949. Remaining years of her career were served at Cartoogechaye School. During this career span she was awarded the Stanton H Proctor Award by the WCU chapter of Phi Delta Kappa for excellence in teaching in Western North Carolina. She served on numerous school committee assignments as well as professional organizations, church, and community. Some of these activities and services were as follows: Local Unit of N.C.A.E., president 1965-1966, vice president 1964-1965, secretary 1963-1964; Local Unit of A.C. T., president 1969-70, 1970-1971, vice president 1967-68, 1965-1969, secretary 1966-67; Delegate to State convention, 1965, 68, 69; served on visitation committee for ACC 1977; Cartoogechaye School PTA, Charman of various committees since 1950, parliamentarian 1976-77; served as principal of Vacation Bible School at First Baptist Church 1965-66; Sunday school teacher, assistant superintendent of Primary Dept, and president of Baptist Women; Den Mother for Pack 29 Cub Scouts 1961-62; Franklin Business and Professional Women's club, president 1975-76, vice president 1973-75, and secretary 1971-73.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Zebulon Lance Shope and Melvina Arie Blaine Shope; husband, Ray Swafford; and son, Daniel Swafford. She was the last surviving sibling of 13 children.

Mildred is survived by her son, David Swafford; numerous nieces and nephews; and many loving caretakers.

The family will receive friends Sunday, August 4 from 1-3pm at Macon Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held at 3pm in the Chapel. Reverend Steve Reeves and Dr. Robert Brown will officiate. Burial will be in the Iotla Baptist Church Cemetery.

Former educators who taught alongside Mildred and the Good News Sunday School class will sit as groups.

Online condolences can be made at www.maconfuneralhome.com.

Macon Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.