Andrew Bowman "Drew" Swan

Andrew Bowman "Drew" Swan, 19, of Athens, Georgia, passed away on June 5, 2017 following a tragic accident, surrounded by loving family, friends, classmates, teammates, coaches and teachers.

Drew attended Athens Academy for 16 years, graduating just last month. He distinguished himself in academics and athletics, graduating as a member of the National Honor Society and excelling in sports. He was a gritty and well-respected football player and an outstanding track athlete. He formally committed to pursuing the latter at Rhodes College this fall. Drew was known and admired for his versatility, limitless enthusiasm, passion and dogged determination. In his last race at the recent state championships, Drew achieved a personal best time in the 800 meters when he came from behind to achieve a gutsy second-place finish.

Drew thrived on friendships, choosing always to be part of something bigger than himself. He loved, laughed and led through his infectious smile, razor-sharp wit, "Eddie Haskell-like" charm, and genuine concern and empathy for others.

Drew was blessed with loving parents, grandparents and siblings, but he belonged as well to a larger family that included cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews, stepparents and stepsiblings and numerous members of our caring community. He embraced them all, loving without hesitation, and in turn was loved by all. Drew left everyone he encountered with the desire to spend more time with him. Along with his brother Matt and sister Jackie, Drew was especially devoted to his special-needs sister Samantha, who he loved and cared for unconditionally, often at significant personal sacrifice.

Drew was a devoted member of St. Stephen's Anglican Catholic Church where he enjoyed Father Nick's Sunday services and was a beloved member of the congregation.

Drew is the son of Mitchell Swan and Toni Boyd, brother of Jackie Perez, Matt Swan and Sam Swan, and grandson of Sharon Swan and Helen Pugliese. His life was blessed with two wonderful stepparents, Leslie Ferrone and Dave Boyd, and stepsiblings Lee Patton, Martha Wanstrath, Ann Bethea and David Boyd. Drew was fortunate enough to have his wonderful aunts and uncles, Sarah and Chris Rhinesmith, Laura and Dennis Greenfield, Bonnie and Jack Pugliese. He treasured his amazing nieces, nephews and cousins.

There will be a memorial service on Sunday, June 11 at 4:00pm at Athens Academy, with a reception immediately following. A private mass will be held on Monday with arrangements being made by Lord & Stephens Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution in Drew's memory to Athens Academy, his wonderful home of 16 years.

Lord and Stephens, West is in charge of arrangements.

www.lordandstephens.com