Mary Etta Harp Swapp born on February 1, 1943 at home in Farmington, NM, passed away on Saturday, February 28, 2015 at 12:47pm at home, at the age of 72. Ultimately, kidney failure was the cause of her death but many factors contributed to the overall decline of her health. In September 2014, she began to decline rapidly after a dual bout with the bacteria's Escherichia Coli and Proteus Mirabilis. Doctors thought she would not survive this as the bacteria's had grown out of control, 100,00 colonies of each that started in her kidneys and then spread throughout her bloodstream. But, true to Mary Swapp form, she fought and recovered better than anyone thought she would, or could. Mary would be disappointed if this feat was not attributed to God's healing powers, a power that she experienced regularly and in great abundance due to her faith in Him.
Mary returned from the hospital in September with stints in both kidney's as this was the only way they could perform their function. In late January, early February 2015, Mary realized, after many minor procedures to beat this infection, (both kidney's were full of Matrix stones, a soft, unbreakable stone that harbored the bacteria Proteus Mirabilis), that her body didn't possess the ability to beat it without major surgery. Mary didn't want major surgery and Doctor's wouldn't allow it due to the extreme risk that full anesthesia created. After prayer and thought, together, Bill and Mary made the decision to have the stints removed and let whatever happens, happen. The stints were removed on Tuesday February 24. She was able to remain coherent, though loopy, until she said goodbye to all her kids and grandkids on Thursday night. These were the last conversations she had until her passing Saturday afternoon. Because of incredible care provided by Dan Keuning and Annie McDade with Mercy Home Health, Mary spent her last few days in comfort, without pain. She was able to pass in her sleep as was her hope.
Mary's greatest battle in her life was her health which she fought with unmatched grace and poise. So much of her rapid decline beginning in September was a direct result of a weak immune system created by a 30+ yr old diagnosis of Mulitple Sclerosis, a 25 yr old diagnosis of Fibromyalgia, and a 20 year old diagnosis of Systemic Lupus. Other illnesses she fought were Severe Degenerative Arthritis in her knees, hands and spinal cord, (among the common results of arthritis, she had very weak vertebrae that fractured on sneezing. At the time of death, she had five fractures in her Thoracic vertebrates), High Cholesterol, Hepatitis and Lichen Sclerosis. She redefined the title 'Fighter'.
Mary took great pride in being a wife and mother. She felt that there was no other position or role more important than the teaching of correct values and principles. She labored vigorously to instill strong morals at home. She was a firm believer in home schooling and was a pioneer of this pursuit in Ohio. Other areas of interest to Mary were political. She managed campaigns, founded a family values organization, and lobbied diligently, (locally and nationally), for topics she was passionate about. Mary also worked hard to ensure members of her community were well cared for. Her selfless nature led her to establish a Meals on Wheels program in her community.
In Mary's life, everyone, including strangers, was a friend. She was known well for her ability to inspire greatness in others; for her buoyant personality; and her ability to penetrate facades and recognize the needs of others. Her attitude was always optimistic and her disposition one of tenacity and diligent resilience. Numerous lives have been touched and ever changed because of their relationship with Mary. She was an excellent example of Christ-like love showing unmatched compassion and understanding to all she interacted with. Some say a person's quality of life is directly related to their ability to build solid relationships and none built better than her. She would believe, and many would agree, the quality of her life was remarkable.
Per Mary's request, in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to one or both of the following:
The Church Perpetual Education Fund The Wounded Warrior Project
c/o Bishop Ken Beck 4899 Belfort Rd. Suite 300
5675 County Rd 334 Jacksonville, FL. 32256
Ignacio, CO. 81137