Obituary of Linda Kay Swanton

Linda Kay Swanton, 66, passed away peacefully at her home in Landing, New Jersey, on June 29, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.
 

Born on December 29, 1959, in Dover, New Jersey, Linda was the beloved daughter of James Evans, Jr. and Audrey (née Coolbaugh). She was raised in Denville alongside her siblings, Dawn, Bobby, and Jerry, and graduated from Morris Knolls High School.
 

During her school years, Linda met David Swanton. What began as a friendship grew over time into a deep and enduring love. The two were married in 1979 and made their home in Rockaway, where they built a life centered on family. Together they were blessed with two beautiful daughters, who were the pride and joy of Linda's life. Her greatest happiness came from watching her family grow and sharing in the moments that made life so meaningful.
 

At 32, Linda was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. While the disease brought significant challenges and changed many aspects of her life, it never diminished the kindness, warmth, or fierce strength that defined her. Through every obstacle, she faced each day with remarkable courage, an unwavering spirit, and a dazzling smile that brought comfort and inspiration to everyone who knew her.
 

Linda found joy in life's simple pleasures. She was a devoted New York Yankees fan who rarely missed a televised game and treasured the opportunity to attend a game with her family. Her love for the Yankees even extended to her pet goldfish, affectionately named Jeter and Judge. She was an avid reader who could always be found immersed in a good book and enjoyed spending quiet moments birdwatching from her home, delighting in the familiar feathered visitors who returned to her feeders year after year. Her beloved dog, Gunner, was a constant companion, bringing comfort, laughter, and unconditional love as they spent countless peaceful moments together.
 

Above all else, Linda will be remembered for her resilience, gentle heart, infectious smile, and the unconditional love she gave to her family and friends. Her strength in the face of adversity and her ability to find joy in everyday moments leave a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know and love her.
 

Linda is survived by her devoted husband, David Swanton, her cherished daughters, Tara Hempel (Travis), Traci Swanton, her granddaughter, Bailey Hempel, her siblings, Dawn McDonald, Bobby Evans, her nieces and nephews, Jason Vics, Heidi McDonnell (Wayne), William Evans, Timothy Hughes, Katie Hughes, Christie Hughes, Charlie Cathcart, Amy Newman, her best friend, Diane Crossan, her granddog, Taco, and many extended family members, dear friends, and loved ones who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James Evans, Jr., Audrey Thompson(née Coolbaugh), her step-father, William Thompson, her brother, Jerry Evans, and her parents-in-law, Jane and Clifford Swanton.

If you would like to contribute to Linda’s legacy in your own way, please consider making a charitable contribution to the ASPCA. Memorial donations can be made by clicking here.

Family and friends are invited to gather for the visitation, which will be held on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, from 3 to 7 PM at Norman Dean Home for Services of Denville, with a funeral service to begin at 6:15 PM. Please use this page to share a memory, leave a condolence, and continue to let Linda’s light shine!