“Give the World a Smile.” That was the theme song for the Carolina Quartet. Jack Swink was the pianist for the quartet and that is exactly what he did everyday of his 93 years.
Jack Bristow Swink was born on June 7, 1927 to Clyde Swink and Cornie Frye Swink in Rockingham, North Carolina, of which he was a proud citizen his entire life.
Jack was the president of Swink Quality Oil Company for over 50 years. He ran the company more like a family than a business, always letting honesty, integrity and generosity guide his decisions.
Jack was music! From an early age, he developed an uncommon, natural talent for playing the piano. No lessons required! He had an uncanny ability to hear a piece of music and play it back perfectly in any key. He shared this gift of music liberally and generously. Raised in the Southern Gospel tradition, Jack played for enumerable gospel groups, soloists, church services, homecomings, reunions, revivals, and funerals (never weddings!). He was the pianist and organist for his church, Pee Dee United Methodist, for over 60 years. No one who has heard him play could doubt that his gift was God-given and for God, he shared his gift.
Jack Swink played many roles in his long life, but the most important role was that of husband and father. Jack married the love of his life, Patricia Patterson, on July 9, 1960. His long, happy, healthy life can be attributed in great part to the boundless love they shared. They had two children, Laurie and John Mark, who continue to be inspired by the examples set by their parents.
Jack is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Pat; loving children, Laurie Swink Bianco (Dino) and John Mark Swink; one granddaughter, Emily Bianco; and his beloved canine companion, Molly.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Clyde and Cornie Swink; his siblings: Noralee McKenzie, Hazel Greene, Betty Richardson and Lionel Swink; and one grandson, Frank Bianco.
Every day of his life, through his loyalty, generosity, talent, sense of humor, his love and compassion for all he knew — he gave the world a smile!
Family and friends will gather to celebrate Jack’s life at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 27, 2021 beside the Mausoleum at Richmond County Memorial Park. Face coverings are requested and please remember social distancing. Those in attendance are welcome to bring a lawn chair for the service. Jack will lie in state from 1-4 p.m. Friday at Carter Funeral Home in Rockingham.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Jack’s memory may be made to Pee Dee United Methodist Church or Richmond County Hospice.
We would like to give thanks to our friends and neighbors, the employees of FirstHealth EMS, Richmond Campus, for all they have done for our family.
Condolences may be made online at www.carterfuneral.net.
