Debra Lynn Swafford

Debra Lynn Swafford, 66, of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away on June 11, 2026.

Debra was born on October 24, 1959, in Beckley, West Virginia. A graduate of Mount Hope High School, she later built a career with Enterprise, where she worked for many years before retirement. She was known for her warm personality, deep faith, and unwavering devotion to her family.

On June 28, 1976, Debra married the love of her life, John Swafford. Together they shared nearly fifty years of marriage, building a life filled with love, laughter, faith, and family.

Debra's greatest joy was spending time with those she loved. She treasured gatherings with family and friends and never missed an opportunity to create lasting memories with them. A woman of strong Christian faith, she loved Jesus Christ, participated in Bible study, and found comfort and purpose in her religion. She also enjoyed singing and sharing her voice in choir activities.

In her free time, Debra enjoyed traveling, playing computer games, working puzzles, playing cards, and treating herself to getting her nails done. She valued friendships deeply and was happiest when surrounded by family, friends, and loved ones.

She is survived by her husband, John Swafford; her children, Jonta Swafford, Johnathan Swafford, and John Swafford; her grandchildren, Jonta Jr. Swafford, Jontaya Swafford, Jontasia Swafford, Johnathan Jr. Swafford, Serenity Pendleton, Mia Swafford, Parker Swafford, and Peyton Swafford and her great-grandson, Jeremiah Pendleton. She is also survived by her siblings, Fred Gray, Glen Gray, and Rodney Gray.

Debra was preceded in death by her daughter, Kaylynn Swafford; parents, John and Clementene (Spencer) Gray; and her siblings, Trisha Daniels, Frank Gray, and John Gray.

Debra will be remembered for her loving heart, steadfast faith, beautiful voice, and the joy she brought to all who knew her. Her legacy of love, kindness, and devotion to family will live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind.