Joyce Elaine Cummings Swainston, 88, died peacefully on Sunday, January 15, 2017 surrounded by her loving family in Eagle, Idaho. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. Joyce was born on November 24, 1928 in Salt Lake City, Utah to Victor Clyde Cummings and Arline Amy Kelson. She enjoyed a sweet childhood as the daughter of a chocolatier. Joyce furthered her education at Columbia University and the University of Utah and was graduated with a degree in Kindergarten/Primary Education. She loved teaching various grades in elementary school for many years. Joyce had a deep love of literature, art, and music. She became a gifted singer and loved to share her vocal talent. Joyce married Howard DeWitt Swainston on June 8, 1953 in Salt Lake City, Utah. They lived in Glendale, California for many years until retiring to Eagle, Idaho. While raising her four children, Joyce volunteered extensively with the PTA and in her community. She also served faithfully in her church. Joyce lost her vision in middle age, but continued to see clearly the beauty in people and life. Her greatest gift was her ability to make everyone feel loved and appreciated. She had an abiding faith and recognized the hand of the Lord in her life. Joyce enjoyed one hundred sunny days for every dark hour. Joyce is survived by her children: Kurt Swainston (Sydney), Erika Swainston Soelberg (Kent), Colin Swainston (Pamela), Paul Swainston (Rebecca); 18 grandchildren, and 16 great-grandchildren. Joyce was preceded in death by her husband of 57 years, Howard DeWitt Swainston. Services will be held at the Eagle Idaho Stake Center of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 2090 N. Eagle Road, Eagle, Idaho on Saturday, January 21, 2017 commencing at 11:00 a.m. There will be a viewing on Friday evening, January 20, 2017 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. and Saturday morning from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Arrangements are under the direction of Zeyer Funeral Chapel, Nampa. 467-7300. Condolence may be expressed at zeyerfuneralchapel.com In lieu of flowers, Joyce desired donations be made to The Braille Institute, The Council for the Blind, or your local library.
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