Carole “Auntie” Swider

It is with heavy hearts, and a whole lot of stories to tell, that we announce the passing of Carole “Auntie” Swider, a woman who lived life in her own way, loud when she needed to be, loving always, and never one to hold back what was on her mind.

Carole attended and graduated from New Bedford Vocational High School. She often told stories from her years working at places like the Baseball Factory, Semass, and Damon. She was ahead of her time, striving for workplace equality, especially in the male-dominated fields she worked in daily. She showed up, learned everything she could, and took pride in working hard and doing things right.

More than anything, Carole was a kind soul who took immense pride in raising her children. She had a part in raising over 25 children throughout the years. She was incredibly proud of “her” Timmy and his military service, something she spoke about often. Her son Tony made her just as proud with his work at Electric Boat, his strong work ethic, the code he holds himself to, and how much he reminded her of herself at his age. Carole also carried a love for her son Eric. Though life took them on different paths, he was never far from her heart. Her daughter Lisa was her rock, her caregiver, her support system, and the one who stood by her through everything. That bond was something truly special.

Most days, you could usually find Auntie sitting in her recliner, flipping the bird at anyone who walked by her favorite way to greet people while planning her next seafood dinner with family. Carole had a personality you don’t forget. She loved her shows, especially Days of Our Lives, her Walmart orders, her “midnight” snacks, and a good long talk. She told it like it was, always, and somehow made you laugh, shake your head, and feel loved all at the same time.

She loved a good “mystery ride.” You never quite knew where you were going, but you knew you’d get there with a story or five along the way. Those rides turned into moments filled with memories, lessons, and stories about her life, her family, and the people she loved most. Those stories weren’t just stories, they're pieces of her that will truly be passed down for generations.

Carole shared a lifelong bond with her cousin Shirley Renyolds, a relationship that was more like sisters than cousins. The memories they created together are endless, and that friendship is one that will never fade. Even now, that bond remains unbreakable.

Carole also formed many meaningful friendships during her time at the Fresenius Kidney Care dialysis clinic in Wareham. Her family would especially like to recognize Kenny, Sue, and the many nurses, staff members, and friends she made there. Their kindness, care, conversations, and support became such an important part of her life and meant more to her and her family than words can truly express.

She had the joy of meeting and spending time with her great-grandson, August, a moment that brought her so much happiness and pride, and one her family will always hold close. She also leaves behind her brother, Tommy Swider and her sister, Sue Slyv. Their bond with Carole was built over a lifetime of shared memories, stubbornness, laughter, and love. She carried that sibling connection proudly, and the stories, jokes, and moments they shared will forever remain a part of her family’s story.

She leaves behind her children, grandchildren, family, and friends who will carry her spirit, her stories, and her strength with them every day. Auntie will be deeply missed not just for the love she gave, but for the way she gave it real, strong, and unforgettable.

A celebration of her life will be held at a later date, where all who knew and loved her are welcome to come together, share stories, and honor a woman who truly left her mark.