With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Joy Lynn Swaim, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. Joy passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri, at the age of 76.
Joy was born on February 13, 1950, in Stockdale, Texas, to Ronald J. Murley and Mary K. Murley, who preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her first husband, Michael J. Brefeld, Sr.
Joy was a strong, intelligent woman who loved deeply and expressed that love in her own ways. Her dedication was evident in the care she gave, the responsibilities she carried, and the support she offered to those closest to her. Often, she was kind without even realizing how much her kindness meant to someone else. What may have seemed ordinary to Joy could leave a lasting impression on the person receiving it.
As a dedicated bookkeeper for H & R Block, Joy brought diligence, intelligence, and meticulous attention to detail to her work. Over the years, she built lasting friendships and earned the respect of those who worked alongside her.
Since 2019, Joy had been a proud member of the American Legion Auxiliary. She was a steady source of support for her husband, Ron Swaim, and played an important role in his leadership at American Legion Post 199. Her commitment to the Legion, especially Post 199, reflected her willingness to give of herself for others. Her Legion family will remember her dedication with lasting gratitude.
Joy is survived by her loving husband, Ronald J. Swaim, with whom she shared many cherished years of marriage; and her children, Michael J. Brefeld, Jr., Bryan L. Brefeld, Megan (Rusty) Berry, Teri Smith, and Nicole Swaim.
She also leaves behind her grandchildren: Michael J. (Jen) Brefeld, Jacob Brefeld, Evan Brefeld, Ryan (Hunter) Berry, Ross (Hennessey) Berry, Summer Smith, Braxton Ayers, Chaz Roach, and Shay Roach.
Her memory will also be cherished by her great-grandchildren: Kaylee Brefeld, Clinton Brefeld, Colin Brefeld, Presley Berry, Piper Berry, Clayton Isbell, Waylyn Isbell, and Rhett Ayers.
Those Joy loved dearly will miss her presence, her strength, and the familiar ways she showed she cared. Each will carry their own memories of her—moments that may once have seemed small but now hold immeasurable meaning. She may never have fully realized the difference she made in the lives around her, but those who knew and loved her will not forget it.
Visitation to honor and celebrate Joy’s life will be held on Friday, October 2, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Gent Funeral Home in Alton, Illinois. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., also at Gent Funeral Home.
Burial will follow at Roselawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto, Illinois. Arrangements are entrusted to Gent Funeral Home & Cremation Services.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Siteman Cancer Center in Joy’s memory.
Joy leaves behind a legacy of quiet kindness, enduring strength, and love expressed in her own unmistakable way. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.