Lucille J. Swartz

Lucille Swartz, 95, of Buchanan, Michigan, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2026. She was born on June 21, 1930, in Niles, Michigan, to Edward and Myrna (Campbell) Erickson, and remained a lifelong resident of the Niles and Buchanan community. A 1948 graduate of Niles High School, Lucille lived a life deeply rooted in faith, family, and quiet generosity.

Her strong Christian faith shaped every part of her life. A longtime member of Portage Road General Baptist Church, she had earlier been part of the Church of the Nazarene. She traveled on mission trips to Haiti, experiences she cherished and often recalled with fondness. Known for her giving spirit and warm heart, she was honored as Mother of the Year by her church and lovingly called “Grandma Chickie” by generations of family and friends. She also found joy in her 16 years working at Walmart, where she formed many lasting friendships.

Above all, Lucille treasured the family she built and the love that surrounded her. She is survived by her seven children, Sherry (Ron) Coleman of Niles, Holly (Greg) Weiner of Monroe, Michigan, Larry Swartz of Buchanan, Debby (Stan) Warda of Berrien Springs, Michigan, Don (Lisa DeMeulenaere) Swartz Jr. of Niles, Judy (Ron) Poznanski of Buchanan, and Mike (Lyn) Swartz of North Liberty, Indiana. She was blessed with 17 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren who brought her endless joy. She also leaves behind her sisters, Virginia Spaulding of Niles and Ruth (Kennard) Feltz of New Carlisle, Indiana.

She was preceded in death by her sisters, Erma Kiefer and Myrna Van Brocklyn, and her brother, John Erickson.