Tommie Gale Swyres, 85, of Festus died Nov. 11, 2025, at Mercy Hospital Jefferson in Crystal City. Mr. Swyres was a member of Local 185 Carpenters’ Union for nearly 65 years. As a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, he served in the Vietnam War on the U.S.S. Ticonderoga, guarding nuclear weaponry and as a senior drill instructor on the rifle range at Camp Pendleton in San Diego, Calif. He loved spending time with his family and enjoyed coaching youth sports for many years, including boys’ soccer and basketball at Our Lady Catholic School in Festus and boys’ baseball for Twin City Little League in Crystal City. He loved being a part of the Festus community for more than 53 years and could often be found telling stories with friends around the Panera Bread table. He also enjoyed being outdoors, hunting, fishing and spending time in the sun. He will be remembered as a ray of sunlight. Born July 3, 1940, he was the son of the late Bill and Sally Swyres.
He is survived by his wife: Diane Swyres; two sons: Scott (Shari) and Neil Swyres; two granddaughters, whom he called “his girls”: Emily and Alexis Swyres; many nieces, nephews and cousins; and numerous other family members and friends.
He was preceded in death by two brothers: Billie (the late Juanita) and Rocky (Jan) Swyres; and a grandson: Carson Swyres.
A memorial gathering is scheduled from 5-8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3, at Vinyard Funeral Home, 616 W. Main St., in Festus. Interment will take place in Polk Cemetery in Ellington. Arrangements are under the direction of Vinyard Funeral Home.