John Alan Swanigan Sr.

John Alan Swanigan Sr. was born one of 6 children to Reverend Alfonso and Mallie Swanigan in Indianapolis, IN on July 6, 1955. He enjoyed working as a General Laborer for 30 plus years, at one time working with his father at Navistar International Corporation also known as International Harvester Company.

John attended Shortridge High School where he was a member of the varsity track team running cross country and graduating in 1973. Upon graduating John pursued his secondary education at Purdue University in addition to Alcorn State University participating in track and field. John also played football and was part of the Indianapolis Bears football team.

John loved all sports but had a true love for the Chicago sports team, especially the Chicago Bears. “How about them Bears” was a memorable line he would say. A wonderful memory his children have of him is the one specific game John took them to see Michael Jordan when he came out of retirement at Market Square arena.

John was a loving father and gave his children many memories of going to different events like basketball, baseball games and WrestleMania.

Throughout his life John traveled to many different states but he considered Indianapolis his home. Recently John came back to Indianapolis from Illinois where he lived with and was cared for by his son Lil John and wife Amber. The family was so pleased to have John back with them as they were able be with him while he lived out his last days on earth.

During his time in Indianapolis, he was surrounded by a whole team of caregivers at Our Extended Family Adult Foster Homes, Golden Gardens Adult Day Center, Deborah Degraphenreed (CNA/Family), & other friends and family.

John Alan Swanigan Sr., 68, passed away peacefully at home on July 6, 2023, at 7:23pm.

John Alan Swanigan Sr was predeceased in death by his wife, Mable Swanigan; father, Reverend Alfonso and mother, Mallie Swanigan; brothers, Alfonso Swanigan jr.; Ira Swanigan; sister Alpha Jean Mitchell.

John Alan Swanigan Sr. leaves to cherish his memories to his children, son John Swanigan Jr;(Amber) and daughter Joneia Currin (Damon); grandchildren, Aaron Wooden, Dajon Currin, Jalen Currin, and Nyssa Currin: great-grandchildren, Aaron Wooden jr., Legend Wooden. Three sisters Marilyn Young, Saundra Crawford (John) and Ruby Jean McCracken; and a host of nieces, nephews and many relatives and friends.