Judith Reeves Swaney Benn

Judith Reeves Swaney Benn, a resident of Bella Vista, Ark., died peacefully on Dec. 26, 2013. She was 75. Born in Kansas City, Kan., Judy studied at the University of Missouri before earning her home economics degree from Kansas State University. She married Dr. Thomas G. Swaney (deceased 1980) and they lived in Andover, Kan., for over 20 years where they raised their three children. Judy was a Girl Scout troop leader, she taught home economics at Andover Middle School and she co-owned a small business, Yards 'n Yarns, with two friends. She also served on the Andover City Council. Judy was a member of Delta Delta Delta Fraternity, and as an alumnus she served on the advisory board and facilities board for the Wichita State University chapter. Following the death of her first husband, Judy married John B. Benn (deceased 2012) and they moved to Bella Vista, Ark. Throughout her life Judy loved theater. In Bella Vista she developed great friendships and purpose with the Village Players, a community theater dedicated to performing the dramatic arts. Judy directed and acted in numerous plays; she also designed sets and sewed costumes for the Village Players' many stage productions. Judy is survived by her children, Lynne Rockers (Brent), Ellen Cobb (Drew) and Tom Swaney (Stacie); eight grandchildren; two sisters; many brothers- and sisters-in-law; and a host of other family and friends. A celebration of her life will be held Saturday, Jan. 25, 2014, at 11 a.m. at the Plaza at the Highlands Crossing, 1 Highlands Drive, Bella Vista, Ark. The family thanks the staff at the Highland Healthcare & Rehabilitation Center in Bella Vista for their deep compassion and excellent care. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Dr. Thomas G. Swaney Memorial Scholarship Fund, KSU Foundation, 2323 Anderson Ave. No. 500, Manhattan, KS 66502, attn: Karla Wisdom. Arrangements are by the Bella Vista Funeral Home & Crematory, 2258 Forest Hills Blvd, Bella Vista, Ark. Online condolences may be made at www.funeralmation.com.