Lena Mae Swain

Born on April 8, 1942, in Talladega, Ms. Swain was the cherished daughter of Cleveland Calhoun, Sr. and Rosa Reynolds Calhoun. A lifelong resident of Talladega County, she nurtured her faith in the Lord from an early age, accepting Christ at St. Campbell Baptist Church. Her steadfast devotion to her faith guided her through her journey, enabling her to serve her community and rejoice in the joys of life. Ms. Swain embraced education within the Talladega County School System before beginning her career at Wehadkee Yarn Mills. She later became a chef in the restaurant industry, infusing love into every dish she created a testimony to her passion for cooking. As the proud mother of seven, Ms. Swain's heart overflowed with love for her children. A woman with a heart of gold, she thrived on family time, the thrill of thrifting for the latest fashions, and nurturing her garden of flowers that reflected her vibrant personality. With a keen sense of adventure, Ms. Swain was also known for her delightful hobby of wine collecting, which brought her joy and friendship with friends and family alike. Her laughter and warmth will be eternally missed, yet her spirit will be always alive in the hearts of those who loved her fiercely. Ms. Lena Mae Calhoun Swain, gracefully departed this life on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at the age of 84, in the comfort of her home surrounded by the love of her devoted family. Ms. Swain has now reunited with her beloved parents, Rosa and Cleveland Calhoun, Sr., daughter, Sharon Swain, brothers, Arthur "AJ" Calhoun, Joe Calhoun, Calvin Calhoun, Gary Calhoun, Efrom Calhoun, Rickey Calhoun, and Mickey Calhoun, and sister, Barbie Stockdale. She leaves an indelible mark on this world, cherished by her family, friends, and all whose lives she touched. She leaves a legacy of love and memories to forever be remembered by her three sons, Rickey Swain, Willie Swain, and Lamont Swain; three daughters, Linda S. (Howard) Garrett, Tanja Swain, and Cassandra (Samuel) Lawson; brothers, Cleveland Daniel Calhoun, Jr. of Oxon Hill, MD, and Ronald "Kemp" Calhoun of Baltimore, MD; sisters, Olivia (J.C.) McClurkin of Oxon Hill, MD and Joyce Calhoun of Alpine. Her nurturing spirit extended to her twenty-five grandchildren, Marquisha Garrett, Eddie Garrett, Tandeka (Albert) Keith, LaShondra Garrett, Princess (Durell) Morris, Courtney Garrett, Leena Swain, Jonathan Swain, Shumerian Clark, Latonica Swain, Javia Swain Kaylan Swain, Jecory (Brittany) Garrett, Arron (Yteria) Gooden, Daneetrice Wallace, Sharayla Swain, Amber (Shannon) Sistrunk, Tierra Calhoun, Cornelius (Tyeshia) Fluker, Princeton Swain, LaDarious Lawson, Keyshawn Swain, Destyne Swain, Khalyl Miller Swain, and Christian Turner; and a multitude of great-grandchildren; great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews cousins, other relatives, and friends, whose laughter filled her home and memories she cherished. In the spirit of love and remembrance, let us honor her life, reflecting together on the joy she brought into the world. May her soul rest peacefully in the arms of the angels, as she now watches over us with a smile from above.

Tributes

Lena Mae Swain

April 8, 1942 - May 20, 2026