Brian Swain

Brian W. Swain, 46, and raised in Roscoe, Illinois, departed from our world on Friday, February 24, 2023. He lived in Carbondale also, and spent his final time in Rockford, Illinois. I always called him my 'little brother' because it was such irony given, he was a foot taller than me; he was my younger brother but at 6' 4”, he was not little. He lived unconventionally to most and he was definitely his own person. My brother was creative, athletic, and a big-hearted boy who loved to learn and go deep into movies, music, books, and topics in space, history, government/politics, and religion. Growing up, he was the one the stray pups would find, and as an adult, he was drawn to be an advocate or protector for others when needed. He often offered a hand to his friends and family or volunteered downtown. He wanted to be part of positive change. His time as a kid making He-man figure stop-motion animation movies with the old VHS camera segued to his hobby of live posts with video commentary about his surroundings. His social presence highlighted the plights of the people he befriended in a world different to most, and music he wanted to share or a photo/art collage he made. He loved his family and reminisced fondly of times like the holidays at the grandmas' houses when we got to see the whole family or shenanigans around the farm. The adoration he had for his parents will be undying and was always apparent in his concern for their safety/health, his creative gifts ideas, and in too many other ways to describe.
He most enjoyed times with his boys; opportunities to help them, give them something, or go do fun stuff together. He was a proud dad and wanted good things for his sons. There was never a better smile on his face than when he was with them. Brian's early departure from our life will forever be felt deep in our hearts and our time with him will always be cherished. He rests now. He is survived by sons, Brayden William Swain and Zephan Lee Swain, of whom he loved more than anything, his parents, Steve and Ruth Swain, myself and my husband (Brenda Henderson & Todd Freeman), nephew, Harrison Freeman, niece, Eleanor Freeman, grandmother, Grace Swain, aunts and uncles, Pat and Terry Winchester, William Dack and Jan, Larry and Nancy Swain, and cousins, Alice, Shane, Amy, Krista, and Jason. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Bernard and Eloise Belma Dack, grandfather, Orville Swain and aunt, Sue Underhill. At this time, arrangements for a memorial event have not been set, but will be made later this year to be held in the Roscoe/Rockford area. In lieu of any flowers, etc, please consider a donation, “In Memorial of Brian Swain”, to
Miss Carly's or
Carpenter's Place in Rockford, or to
The Warming Center in Carbondale. Stateline Cremations is assisting the family, 6204 Forest Hills Rd., Loves Park, IL. www.statelinecremations.com