Hazel Fern Swearingen, 86, formerly of Peoria, died at 10;13 a.m. Sunday, July 15, 1990 at Lindenwood Health Care Center where she had lived since 1986.
She was born Aug. 17, 1903, in Summum, a daughter of Charles E. and Iva M. (Elliot) Welch. She first married Everett Tucker on June 16, 1925, in Averyville. He died Aug. 14, 1954, in Peoria. She married Bruce M. Swearingen on June 30, 1957, in Peoria. He died in Peoria on Nov. 22, 1965.
She was preceded in death by one brother.
Survivors include two brothers, Fay Welch of Lewistown and Gaylon Welch of Peoria; four sisters, Mrs. Charles (Ruth) Roth of Harlingen, Texas, Mrs. Ralph (Frances) Markley of Havana, Mrs. Lawrence (Maxine) Heffern of Peoria and Miss Bonnie Welch of Tempe, Ariz.; and a number of nephews and nieces.
She taught at Midstate College in the 1960’s.
She was a member of Peoria Heights Chapter 933, Order of Eastern Star, a 50-year member of the Peoria Women’s Club, a member of Peoria Women’s Chorus, and a member of First Baptist Church.
Graveside services were held Wednesday at Springdale Cemetery with Rev. William C. Martin officiating. Cremation rites have been accorded. Cumerford-Endsley Memorial Home was in charge of arrangements.
Memorials may be made to her church.