Polly Ann Swindell, age 77, gracefully embraced eternal peace on May 1, 2024, ascending to join her Heavenly Father. She was born on July 30, 1946, in Alabama, a cherished daughter of the late Billie and Leonard Jones. Also preceding her in death were her beloved sisters, Ollie Mae Baker and Sarah Farmer.
Polly’s journey of life was adorned with purpose and accomplishment. She was a proud alumna of Haines City High School, graduating in 1964, and later pursued higher education at South Eastern University in Lakeland, Florida. Following her academic pursuits, Polly embarked on a noble path in education, beginning with her devoted service in the Migrant early education program. She also showcased her managerial prowess in esteemed restaurants like Rax and Donald Ducks Canteen in Lake Wales, Florida. However, her heart found its true calling in nurturing young minds, as evidenced by her dedicated tenure as a cafeteria worker at Spook Hill Elementary for 22 years.
Upon her retirement from Polk County Schools, Polly embraced a new chapter in her life, serving as a soft-line merchandiser at Lake Wales Walmart for a decade, until unforeseen circumstances led her to Virginia to reside with her eldest son, Arthur. In her newfound home, Polly became an integral part of the Christian Embassy International Church community, where her faith flourished for eight and a half years. She found solace and companionship in her abode at Cambridge Square apartments in Chesapeake, VA, forging lasting friendships along the way.
Polly’s creative spirit knew no bounds; she was a masterful artisan, adept at crocheting, sewing, and quilting. She regaled her loved ones with tales of her upbringing on the farm and delighted in sharing recipes from her cherished cookbook. An avid gardener, she found tranquility amidst nature, whether by the shore or amidst the majestic mountains. Among her cherished memories, she recounted encounters with the band Alabama during her waitressing days and cherished attending church with the late Johnny Cash.
Polly leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion, survived by her adoring sons, Arthur Swindell (Erika) and David Swindell, and her dear daughter, Sha’Nyse Coleman. She will forever remain in the hearts of her treasured grandchildren: Jaeda, Daniel, and Nathan Swindell. She is also survived by her siblings, Kenneth Jones and Shelby Jean Golden, along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended relatives, and dear friends.
A Celebration of Life honoring Polly’s remarkable journey will take place on May 25th at 3:00 PM at Christian Embassy International Church, located at 1208 N. Centerville Turnpike, Chesapeake, VA. Simultaneously, a memorial service will be held at Victory Ridge Academy, located at 501 Burns Ave, Lake Wales, FL, 33853, commemorating her enduring spirit and profound impact on all who knew her.