Elizabeth A. Swanson

Elizabeth A. “Betty” Swanson, 88, of New Carlisle, Indiana, passed away peacefully on January 19, 2026.

Betty was born on June 9, 1937, in Galena Township, Indiana to the late Wheeler and Iva Barnes Meyers. A woman deeply rooted in her community and family, she married the love of her life, Joseph William Swanson, Jr., in 1955. Together they shared 70 years of marriage, building a life rich in love, hard work, and devotion to one another.

Betty was known to many as “The Avon Lady,” forming lasting friendships and connections through her years of selling Avon throughout the community. She also worked for several years with the LaPorte County Library Bookmobile, bringing the joy of reading to others. In addition, she generously gave her time as a Galena Township election day worker, a role she enjoyed and took pride in as a dedicated citizen.

At home, Betty found happiness in the simple and meaningful pleasures of life. She loved quilting and sewing, tending her garden, and canning the fruits of her labor. One of her greatest joys was hanging clothes on the line to dry, a reflection of her appreciation for tradition, patience, and the beauty of everyday moments.

Betty is survived by her beloved husband, Joseph William “Bill” Swanson, Jr.; her children, Jeffrey Swanson (Deleigha), Clifford Swanson (Brenda), Craig Swanson (Angie), Bart Swanson (Donna), Laura Swanson, and Sheila Swanson; her sister, Irma Freeman; 16 grandchildren; and many, many great-grandchildren who brought her immense joy. She was preceded in death by her brothers, Donald Meyers and Maurice Meyers, and her sisters, Esther Martin, Eleanor Benford, Ruth Conklin, Nina Firebaugh, and Carol Waak.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, January 23, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services in LaPorte. Visitation will be held on Thursday evening, January 22, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will immediately follow the funeral service at Lambs Chapel United Methodist Church Cemetery.

Betty will be remembered for her strong work ethic, generous spirit, and the quiet love she poured into her family, her home, and her community. Her legacy lives on through the many lives she touched and the generations who will carry her memory forward.