Edward Arden Swisher

Edward “Ed” Arden Swisher

February 19, 1958 – December 18, 2025

Edward Arden Swisher, known lovingly to all as Ed, passed away on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at the age of 67, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family. Born on February 19, 1958, in Grafton, West Virginia, Ed lived a life rich in love, music, laughter, family, and a lifelong devotion to the West Virginia Mountaineers.

Ed was the beloved son of the late Allen K. Swisher and Margaret Boylen Barker, and the cherished stepson of Kay Swisher. From an early age, Ed’s warmth, humor, and unmistakable spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

At just 18 years old, Ed met the love of his life, Mildred “Millie” Shaluta Swisher. From that moment on, they were inseparable. Their love story spanned more than five decades, including 46 beautiful years of marriage rooted in friendship, laughter, loyalty, and unconditional love. Together, they built a family that brought Ed his greatest joy and pride.

Ed was a devoted and deeply proud father to his two children, Miranda Beth Swisher Cox and Jebb Allen Swisher. Being their dad was one of the greatest accomplishments of his life. He adored his son-in-law, Lucas Cox, and his daughter-in-law, Kerrigan Swisher, and nothing brought him more happiness than being “PapPaw” to his treasured granddaughter, Finley Rhys Cox—a role that filled his heart beyond measure.

Music lived in Ed’s soul. Self-taught and naturally gifted, he learned to play guitar by ear at a young age and could recognize a song within seconds. His legendary “Name That Tune” abilities were unmatched among family and friends. Music was never just a hobby for Ed—it was part of who he was and how he connected with the world.

A natural storyteller and jokester, Ed loved to laugh and make others laugh. He was silly, playful, and warm, and his humor filled every room he entered. Family gatherings were never complete without his laughter, music, and unmistakable presence.

A hardworking and dedicated Millwright, Ed spent many years traveling across the country working in power plants. He took great pride in his work ethic and in providing for the life he built with perseverance and integrity.

In addition to his beloved wife, children, and granddaughter, Ed is survived by his brother, Larry Swisher (Melissa Swisher); his sister-in-law, Brenda Swisher; his niece, Hermiety Swisher-Van Laar (Grant Van Laar and niece Gracie); his stepmother, Kay Swisher; and very special cousins John, Syble and Corrine Corio; Eddie, Nancy, Natalie, Breanna and Frederique Morgan., Special Cousin Trisha Montgomery, Sister in law, Susan Rousch & Denny & Steve Shaluta & Vickie

He is also lovingly remembered by friends who were like family members, including Mike and Beth Wininger and their children/ grandchildren, and Bubba & Sandy Mitchum & children/grandchildren, Like his Big Bro & sister, Bud & Kathy Mckeen and Trisha Montgomery. Many more friends & Family

He was proceeded in death by his brother Tom Swisher.

Ed’s legacy lives on through the love he gave so freely, the music he shared, and the laughter that will forever echo in the hearts of those who knew him. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Grafton, WV at a later date.