Barbara Marie Swope

It is with sadness, but also with deep gratitude and love, that we share that our mother, Barbara Marie Swope, passed away peacefully at home on June 21, 2026, at the age of 88.

Mom lived a life centered on faith, family, friendship, and service. A third-generation Washingtonian, she graduated from Georgetown University School of Nursing and devoted many years to caring for others as a nurse. She and our father, Dr. John P. Swope, recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary.

She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. Her Catholic faith guided her life, and she generously shared that faith through years of teaching religious education and helping others in need. She loved bringing people together, whether for Thanksgiving, Christmas, birthdays, Fourth of July celebrations, or simple visits around the kitchen table.

Mom had a determined spirit and often reminded us, "Find a way to make it work." That simple advice reflected the way she approached life and the example she set for all of us. She had a gift for making people feel welcome, and her home was always a place of hospitality, laughter, and love.

She is survived by her beloved husband of 60 years, John; her children, John (Karen), Mary (Rich), Joseph (Heather), and Margaret (John); nine grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and many dear relatives and friends.

Family and friends are invited to join us in celebrating her life:
• Visitation : Saturday, June 27, beginning at 11:00 a.m. at St. Patrick's Catholic Church 4101 Muncaster Mill Road, Rockville,  Maryland.
• Funeral Mass: 12:00 p.m. at St. Patrick's Catholic Church.
• Interment: Following the Mass at the chapel at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Silver Spring, Maryland

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Barbara's memory to the Blinded Veterans Association. https://bva.org