Evelyn “Virginia” Swafford, 84, of Richmond, Missouri, passed away Saturday, July 25, 2026, at Oak Ridge Assisted Living in Richmond.

Virginia was born on December 18, 1941, in Warrensburg, Missouri, the daughter of James B. “Jim” and Ruby G. (Wilson) Buthe. She was united in marriage to Robert E. “Bob” Swafford of Richmond on August 7,1966. He preceded her in death on April 27, 2020.

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

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; 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 from Tarkio High School in 1959. 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 the love of her life, Bob, 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 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. to relocate the library in 2001. She was also active with 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. 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 Richmond United Methodist Church or the American Diabetes Association. Memorials may be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home, 507 East Main Street, P.O. Box 190, Richmond, MO 64085.

Visitation with funeral services will be held Monday, August 3, 2026, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. Services will follow at 11:00 a.m. Burial will be in Richmond Memory Gardens. Please remember to share your memories of Virginia with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.