Richard Swails was born August 7th 1945 in Sonora TX and passed away peacefully on December 21st 2019 in his home in Moab UT surrounded by his family.
Richard was drafted into the US Army during the Vietnam War and was stationed in Germany as a radio repairman. He received the National Defense Service Medal and the Army Good Conduct Medal. After his discharge he returned to the States went to work in the oilfield which brought him to Moab UT.
He married Elizabeth Ann Carter and they had a daughter Helene. They divorced and several years later he remarried. In spite of the marriage ending, he maintained a lifelong relationship with his two stepsons James and Timothy Ray.
Richard retired from Williams Pipeline and went to work as an independent inspector for pipeline construction projects all over the United States. While visiting his family in Moab he met his best friend and love of his life Tami Barr with whom he spent many years riding his Harley and exploring the red rocks in their UTV. They were married June 3rd 2015 in Moab UT and continued their love for adventure up until his death.
Richard was a lifetime member of the VFW Post 10900 and the NRA. He was a proud defender of his country and the 2nd amendment. He was a passionate gun collector and loved anything he could make go fast.
He was preceded in death by his Father Damon, mother Lora Dell and sister Cheryl Swails Lowe.
He is survived by his wife Tami Barr Swails of Moab, daughter Helene Taylor of Moab, son James Ray of Rifle CO, son Timothy (Marci) Ray of Evanston WY, daughter Savannah Barr of Blanding UT, nephew Wesley (Chrissy) Skains of Kerrville TX and aunt Margie Smith of Austin TX. Grandchildren; Tanisha (KC Christensen) Taylor, Kyler Bernal, Mitch (Raquel) Ray, Cody Ray, Cameron Taylor, Gunner Ray, Lydia Ann Taylor, Wyatt Jaramillo, Harley Jaramillo and Mackenly Ray. Great grandchildren; Paislee Kendall, Konnor Bernal and Layla Bernal.
At Richard’s request cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
You may send condolences to the family at www.SpanishValleyMortuary.com
