William “Tom” Thomas Swann, age 74, of Good Hope, Alabama, passed away peacefully on March 23, 2026, at 6:15 a.m., surrounded by his loving family. Tom was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose life was marked by faith, service, humor, and an unwavering commitment to helping others.
Tom’s life was one of dedication, hard work, and versatility. A retired science teacher, he taught at multiple schools including Dowling School, Jones Chapel, Hanceville High School, Cold Springs High School, and Wallace State Community College. Most of his career was spent at Hanceville High School, where he secured grants to build a state-of-the-art science lab and piloted the Applied Biology-Chemistry Program in Cullman County. A lifelong learner, Tom cherished completing NASA’s U.S. Space Academy in Huntsville, an experience that highlighted his curiosity and love for science.
Even in retirement, Tom remained active, pursuing a variety of ventures before building and running a successful fire extinguisher business for ten years. He delighted in spending time with his grandchildren, watching their sports, and being fully present in life’s meaningful moments. His hobbies included woodworking in his shop, beekeeping, drawing, fishing, and following Alabama football, reflecting a life filled with simple joys and a steady, grateful spirit.
Tom’s service extended far beyond his professional life. A volunteer firefighter, EMT, and longtime chief of the Arkadelphia Fire Department, he secured funding to build a new firehouse and oversaw the creation of Arkadelphia Park. He received the Outstanding Leadership Award for Firefighters in Cullman County. A devoted Gideon and faithful church member, he taught Sunday school and Wednesday night services, sharing God’s word with enthusiasm and love.
Tom is survived by his wife, Linda Kaye Swann; children Kelsey Ashten Stewert (William), Andrea Elise Key (Ryan), Eric Nicholas Swann (Monica), and Patrick Kiel Swann; grandchildren Jadon, Ben, Isabella, Dallin, Mason, Zane, Blair, Jet, and Reid; great-grandchild Koepland; brothers Perry Lynn Swann and James Spencer Swann; and sister Gaylon Tyrone Baty. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jessie and Carrie Lee Swann.
A visitation will be held March 27, 2026, at Moss-Service Funeral Home, Cullman, AL, followed by a Celebration of Life and committal service at Valley View Baptist Church, Hanceville, AL, on March 28. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Southern Care Hospice, especially nurses Lynsey Trussell and Madison Bennett, and to Steton Hayes for their compassionate care.
Tom’s legacy is one of unwavering dependability, compassion, and faith. His family reflects: “How blessed we were to love and be loved by you. Your lessons of hard work, faith, and living with Jesus in your heart remain with us. This is not a farewell, but a see you later. We love you and long for the day we meet again.”
