Virginia Swafford

Evelyn “Virginia” Swafford, 84, of Richmond passed away Saturday, July 25, 2026, at Oak Ridge Assisted Living in Richmond. Virginia was born Dec. 18, 1941, in Warrensburg, the daughter of James B. “Jim” and Ruby G. (Wilson) Buthe. She was united in marriage to Robert E. “Bob” Swafford of Richmond on Aug. 7, 1966. He preceded her in death on April 27, 2020.

Survivors include her two sons, Gary L. (Tammy) Swafford of St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, and J. Rob (Courtney) Swafford of Richmond; and two grandchildren, Calvin Gibbs (Amanda) Swafford of Abilene, Texas, and Claire Jameson Swafford of Nashville, Tenn. Other survivors include three nieces, five great-nephews, several great-great-nieces and nephews, cousins and many dear friends.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; infant son, Paul Mark Swafford; and two brothers, Ronnie R. Buthe and J. Wilson Buthe.

Virginia attended school in Williamsburg and Allerton, Iowa; and Richmond before graduating in 1959 from Tarkio High School. She continued her education at Tarkio College, where she earned her degree in 1963.

Following graduation, she moved to Richmond to begin her career as an elementary school teacher. It was during those years that she met Bob, the love of her life, while having her car repaired at Swafford’s Ford.

After starting her family, Virginia devoted herself to being a loving wife, mother and homemaker while also becoming a familiar substitute teacher at the Richmond RXVI School District.

Virginia was an active member of the Richmond United Methodist Church. She faithfully served through the Friendship Circle, chaired the community blood drive hosted by the church, helped prepare and serve countless funeral dinners, and served as a church trustee.

Her dedication to the Richmond community extended far beyond her church. She proudly served as a board member of the Ray County Library Inc., helping to relocate the library in 2001. She also was active with the Friends of the Farris and the Ray County Community Arts Association.

Family was the center of Virginia’s life. She rarely missed a school event, activity or milestone involving her grandchildren; and they could always count on her love, encouragement and unwavering support.

She and Bob also shared a love of big band music, making many trips to Clarinda, Iowa, for the Glenn Miller Festival. In addition, they treasured spending time with their close circle of friends, enjoying music, laughter and the fellowship they shared together.

Virginia will be remembered for her servant’s heart, her generous spirit and the lasting impact she made on her family, church and community.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Richmond United Methodist Church or the American Diabetes Association. Memorials may be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 6408.

Visitation and funeral services will be held Monday, Aug. 3, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond, with visitation beginning at 10 a.m. and the services to follow at 11. Burial will be in Richmond Memory Gardens.

Please share your memories of Virginia with the family at www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.