Carmella McSwine

Carmella McSwine was born on January 4, 1947 to the late Henry and Bernadine Buford in Chicago, Illinois.  She was the "baby" of the family, youngest out of 10 siblings who all loved and cherished her deeply.

Carmella joined Canaan AME Church where she accepted Christ at the early age of five.  There she learned the importance of faith and has been a devoted member.  She recently received a plaque being recognized for over 70 years of membership at Canaan AME Church.

Carmella attended Irving School and Proviso East High School in Maywood, Illinois for her formal education.  She later received a Business Certificate from Triton College in River Grove, Illinois.

Carmella was employed at International Harvester for 18 years, where she thrived and worked hard for her family.

Carmella was blessed with 10 beautiful children who loved her dearly.  She was united in Holy Matrimony to Maxine McSwine and was a devoted wife, and loving mother. 

She was always the driving force at the center and heart of her family and enjoyed spending time with all.  She passionately spent hours sitting, listening and talking with family and friends. Carmella was an avid book reader, enjoyed watching movies with family and loved to cook – she was best known for her delicious fried chicken.

Carmella departed this life and went to her heavenly home with the Lord on September 21, 2023 at 1:23 a.m.  Preceding her in death was her husband, Maxine McSwine and later her partner Cleotha Rule.  Also preceding her in death were two sons Kevin and Keith McSwine, her siblings Phyllis, Bernadine, Georgianne, Alberta, Charles, Melvin, Donald, Carlton and Gilbert. Nieces Karen Trigg, Michelle Williams, and Stephanie Blackwell.  Nephew Ricky Robinson.  Granddaughter Keisha McSwine-Rimmer and best friends Cita Street, Hattie Brewer and Cheryl.

Carmella leaves to cherish her memory 8 children:  Jacqueline Burns (Russell), Michael McDonald, Brian Buford, Lawrence Frugie, Terrance McSwine, Douglas McSwine (Kathy), Yolanda McSwine, Tracie Buford, and stepson Cleothas Williams (Marketa). Grandchildren, Russell, Jr. and Jaelyn Burns, Marvis McSwine, Kevin and Crystal Crawford, Makayla, Nadia and Douglas McSwine, Jayla Graham and King Buford.  Great-grandchildren, Keimari, Keiasha, Mariana and Mario Rimmer, one great-great-great granddaughter Elisia Rimmer along with a host of beloved relatives and friends.  We will all miss her sassy, sweet, and kind disposition, along with her generous and tenacious spirit.

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