Dorothy Rose Swanson, 85, of Oldsmar, Florida, joined her loved ones in heaven on Tuesday, October 12,2021. Dorothy was born in England to Earnest and Dorothy Roberts. She met her husband Norman during WWII and he brought her to America. Together, they built a steadfast, loving life and parented 10 children.
Dorothy’s whole life was marked by her compassion, determination, dedication, hardwork, loyalty, and absolute joy for life. She longed to see others happy and never failed in bringing the brightest light to people’s days. Her smile and laugh were contagious. Her sense of humor was second to none. All who had the pleasure of meeting her, even once, made a friend in Dorothy.
Her career in nursing was so befitting of her character. She began her nursing training in England and went back to college in Kentucky at Spaulding University at the age of 43 to earn her RN Degree. She worked in many areas of medicine. Her last years of work were with Hospice, where she helped many find comfort and peace. She retired in 2008, but never stopped going. She was always busy and loved her family more than words could describe. She enjoyed food, playing bingo, poker, slot machines, Scrabble, and watching British tv shows. Most of all, she cherished each day with her loved ones and lived the Hospice motto of “Every day is a gift”.
She was preceded to heaven by her father, mother, loving husband Norman, son Barry, daughter Gloria, brother in law Terry, sister Gloria and faithful companions Vinnie, Nikki, and Dolly.
She is survived by her children Teri Swanson, Wayne Swanson (Carol), Joann Alexander, Gunard Swanson, Marcella Wills (Cletus), Chris Swanson (Michele), Jason Swanson (Lisa), and Kathleen Swanson, her 20 beautiful grandchildren, 26 great grandchildren and 1 on the way, and 2 great great grandchildren on the way. She is also survived by her brother Bill (Hazel) and their 7 children, her niece Wanda Kelley and nephew Lee Ballard (Amy) and their 2 children, with one great great niece on the way. She leaves behind her loyal companion Punkin.
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