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Bonnie "Louise" Best McSwain, born October 29, 1937, in Haywood County, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at home on December 5, 2025, at the age of 88. A cherished mom, nana, and great-nana, Louise lived a life defined by strength, devotion, and joy. Though small in stature, she was mighty in spirit, and her presence left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her. Louise grew up in the Upper Crabtree community in Haywood County of the North Carolina mountains and graduated from Crabtree Iron Duff High School. She found happiness in life's simple pleasures-bowling, basketball, square dancing, watching hummingbirds, and spending time in the mountains she loved. She saw Elvis Presley live, rarely missed an episode of Jeopardy or Wheel of Fortune, and loved soaking up the sun. Always taking pride in her appearance, Louise kept her hair and nails perfectly done, a reflection of her vibrant personality. She dedicated 30 years of service to Bank of America and later 14 years at Davidson College, where her hard work and kindness touched countless lives. Born to the late William Crawford Best and Essie Hill Best, Louise carried forward their legacy of resilience and love. She was preceded in death by her husband of 57 years, Devon Wilkes McSwain; brothers Willard, Joe, Earl, Junior, Ernest, Max, Ken, and Woody; and sisters Eva, Hilda, and Denise. She is survived by her daughter, Lisa McSwain Drose (Arden) of Mooresville, NC, and son, Derek McSwain (Sonya) of Mount Pleasant, NC; grandchildren, Dylan McSwain (Hannah) of Mount Pleasant, NC, Alex Drose of Columbia, SC, Miranda McSwain of Mount Pleasant, NC, and Evan Drose (Taylor) of Gold Hill, NC; great-granddaughter, Ruth McSwain; and one sister, Edna Best Lentz of Waynesville, NC. Her family will remember her as a guiding light whose love and laughter will continue to inspire them. In accordance with her wishes, Louise will be cremated and later interred with Devon in the North Carolina mountains she loved so dearly. A private memorial service will be held in the spring to celebrate her life. Louise's legacy is one of devotion, perseverance, and joy. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Cavin-Cook Funeral Home, Mooresville is proudly serving the McSwain family.

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Bonnie Louise McSwain

October 29, 1937 - December 5, 2025