Betty Swift

Betty Rose Swift, born February 5, 1925, affectionally known as “Rosie the Riveter” for her work in the Kansas City airplane factories during World War II, went to be with her Lord, July 3, 2022.

Her strong work ethic was always present whether working at Peck’s department store, secretary at Briarwood Elementary or as Shawnee Mission South’s Attendance Secretary. One of her biggest jobs was the family building, and summer operation, of the S.S. Rapids Motel in the Big Thompson Canyon of Estes Park, Colorado.

As a teenager, she married her high school sweetheart and WWII Air Force pilot, Orin Eugene Swift. He served as principal at Corinth Elementary school in Prairie Village, Kansas for 37 years. They cherished their 63 years together as true partners in an abundant life.

Love for Olivet Baptist Church, Westwood, Kansas, brought many friends from the Fidelis Sunday School class into their home.  After retirement she worked in the library of Colonial Presbyterian Church, Kansas City, Missouri and attended the Prime Timers Sunday School Class.

World travels to China era 1970, Iran, Antarctica twice, even being held hostage for taking photos in Africa, made Betty and Orin lively conversationists while showing their films.

Loving all animals, birds came to her yard for food, feral cats found their home, and of course dogs gave her joy until her last days.

In all of her life, Betty would say her biggest achievement was raising three Christian children, Orin F. Swift (Kathy), Sherlyn Bain (Dale) and Melanie Swift.  Her legacy continues through six Christ following grandchildren, and ten great grandchildren.

Preceded in death were parents Frank and Hazel Bernitz, husband Orin E. Swift, sister Charlotte, step-sisters Annabelle Tebbe, and Betty Jane Burkett.

Betty looked forward to again re-joining her baby sister Charlotte and her husband in whatever God has planned in their eternal life.

A grateful heart remembers home caregiver, Terri Ward, the wonderful staff at Bickford Place of Overland Park, and Monarch Hospice.

Memorial Service to be held, Monday, July 11, 10:00a.m. at the Johnson County Memorial Gardens, 11200 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, Kansas.

The family is asking all attendees to wear masks.

Donations can be made in Betty’s memory to the Food Pantry at Colonial Presbyterian Church or the  KC Pet Project animal rescue.