James "Jim" Swearingen

James "Jim" Swearingen, 73, of Bristol, SD, passed away on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at Sanford Aberdeen Medical Center.

Jim's wishes were to be cremated, and no formal services will be held at this time.

A Graveside Committal Service will take place in his hometown at Kelly Cemetery in Maupin, Oregon, at a later date.

Jim was born to Donald and Peggy (Quinn) Swearingen in 1953 in Portland, Oregon. He grew up in Maupin, Oregon, and worked at the Mountain Fir Lumber Company until its closure. He was married to Michelle (Philips) Swearingen for 43 years. After the lumber mill closed, Jim moved his family to Tillamook, Oregon, where he worked at a lumber mill until the Swearingens moved to Watertown, South Dakota. They lived in various towns around Watertown and finally resided in Bristol, SD.

Jim and Michelle have seven sons between them: three from his previous marriage to Leta Barclift, one from Michelle, and three more they had together. From the seven sons, many grandchildren were born, some of whom went to Heaven before Jim did.

In South Dakota, Jim worked welding electrical signs for ESCO signs. He worked for Webster Scales in Road Construction.

In Jim’s younger years, he enjoyed whitewater rafting, circle track racing, deer hunting, downhill skiing, and camping.

In later years, he found joy in taking scenic drives and exploring new back roads, browsing the internet, tinkering on projects with his grandchildren, visiting family both near and far, and staying connected with loved ones by phone.

He is survived by his wife, Michelle; sons: James Richard, Tony, Nicholas (April), Nathan, Eric (Charlie), Royce (Aly), and Garret (Casey); 18 grandchildren; sister, Mary O'Dell; brothers, DJ (Carrie) Swearingen, and Alan (Tamara) Swearingen.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his paternal grandparents, William and Mary (Allen) Swearingen, his maternal grandparents, Alvis and Florence (Bryson) Quinn, and 4 grandchildren.