Ulyses Julian SwaffordJanuary 12, 1945 – June 30, 2026

Ulyses Julian Swafford, 81, of Niota, Tennessee, passed away at his home on June 30, 2026, surrounded by his loving family, following a brave and hard-fought battle with cancer.

Born on January 12, 1945, in Athens, Tennessee, Ulyses was the son of the late J.C. Swafford and Nelle Irons Swafford. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Jane Hicks Swafford; his former wife, Glenda Swafford Boney; and his grandson, Andrew Swafford.

Ulyses was a devoted Christian who faithfully attended  One Church-Delano in Delano, Tennessee. He was a skilled welder and a man of many talents; Gifted with both a sharp mind and a generous spirit, he possessed the rare ability to fix absolutely anything.

In accordance with his explicit wishes, no formal funeral will be held, and he arranged to be cremated.

An avid outdoorsman, he loved plinking and target shooting, and his sharp eye never missed its mark. He took great pride in his collection of modern, Western, and antique firearms and nothing brought him greater joy than sharing his passion by gifting these firearms to his beloved family and friends.

He cherished his faith, loved his family deeply, and will be remembered for the strength, love, and guidance he shared with those who knew him.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory his children, Jeff Swafford (Debbie), Keith Swafford (Irma), Michelle Bonnett (Mike), Julian Swafford (Toby), Crystal King (Timmy), and Ashlee Hall (Justin). He is also survived by sixteen beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren; his sister, Arlene Sherrill (Curtis); and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will greatly miss him.

To honor his memory, his church family is hosting a special memorial service, which will be held at 1Church-Delano, 180 Wetmore Circle, Delano, TN 37325 on Sunday, July 12 at 10:00 AM. The service will be officiated by Pastor Patrick McCulley.

The Swafford family is profoundly grateful to Amedisys Hospice Care of Athens for their compassionate comfort and care. Heartfelt thanks also go to his 1Church-Delano Family for filling each day with prayers, love, meals, continuous visits, and unwavering support. Special thanks are also given to his devoted friends, Bobby Toomey and Scotty Bales, for their exceptional friendship and presence.

Buckner & Fike Funeral Home and Cremation Services is honored to serve the Swafford family during this difficult time. You are invited to share a personal memory or leave a condolence for the family on Ulysses's tribute wall.