Jay Dee Swinehart, 61, of Goshen, Indiana, passed away on December 4, 2023 at Bronson Battle Creek Hospital, following a long illness. Jay was born on September 22, 1962 in Three Rivers to Shirley (Hackler) and Norman Swinehart.

After Jay graduated from Three Rivers High School in 1980, he worked nearly 40 years in the RV industry, most recently for Thor Industries. Jay, known for his sense of humor, enjoyed painting, woodworking, sci-fi, and fishing. He was a long-time member of the Michiana Aquarium Society in South Bend.

Surviving are his son Jason (Rachel) Swinehart, Portage, daughter Ilea (Andrew Schroeder) Swinehart, Chicago, their mother Ilona Whiteman, Centreville, Iyanna Smith and Troy Troyer of Goshen both of whom he cared for greatly and helped raise, grandchildren Isabelle Swinehart and Grayson Swinehart, his mother Shirley (Richard) Barks, Jones, sisters June (Michael) Oakes, Sand Coulee, MT, Kathy (Raymond) Wise, Three Rivers, brother Ken Swinehart, Paris, MI, and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father Norman Swinehart.

Per his request, cremation has taken place. A gathering of friends and relatives will be announced at a later date. The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, that donations be made in his memory to the Michiana Aquarium Society in South Bend.

To sign Jay's online guest book and leave a message for the family, visit www.eleyfuneralhomes.com.