Barbara Louise SWINNEY

FUNERAL HOME

John Rhind Funeral Directors

13-19 London St

Christchurch, Canterbury

Barbara SWINNEY Obituary

Passed away in hospital on Sunday, December 28, 2025, aged 76. She was born in Fort Smith, Arkansas, USA, on November 21, 1949, to Helen Bernice Brown (nee Loyd) and Rupert Amos Brown. Barbara was preceded in death by her husband of 46 years, Landol Lamar Swinney (1949-2020), and her cherished sisters, Bea Place (1947-2024) and 'Ruby' Branch (1946-2025). She is survived by her children Melisa Elaine Wang of Sydney, Australia and Amanda Marie Swinney of Christchurch, New Zealand, as well as her son-in-law Harrison Farrow, also of Christchurch. She was beloved by many family members and friends, who all held a cherished place in her heart. Barbara dedicated her life to the service of her faith, as a missionary, church secretary, and teacher of the Bible's doctrine to all ages. She loved her family and friends, working in her garden, her cats, and a good cup of coffee. The funeral will be held at the Harewood Chapel in the Harewood Memorial Gardens, Wilkinsons Road, Christchurch, on Friday, January 9, 2026 at 1.00pm.

We love you, Barbara. Words cannot express how deeply we feel the loss of your warm and generous heart.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Press on Jan. 7, 2026.

Memories and Condolences
for Barbara SWINNEY

2 Entries

Colleen P

February 3, 2026

Such a sweet friend. I already miss her so much

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Rich & Shirley Troup

January 9, 2026

Dear Melissa & Amanda,

You probably do not remember us since it has been many, many years since we last saw you. Your dad was our first pastor at Calvary Baptist Church, Chambersburg, PA, in 1980. Your mom was such a faithful servant of the Lord while she lived in Chambersburg working alongside of your dad in his ministry here. We will always remember your mom's sweet alto voice and playing the piano at our church. I, Shirley, had the privilege of singing duets with Barbara from time-to-time. We shared some very special times together with both of your parents and you two while you lived in Chambersburg.

When our pastor mentioned that he had gotten word of Barbara's passing from a pastor in Arkansas, we began to pray for you immediately. Your mom touched the lives of many people. Her celebration of life service was totally a reflection of how she lived her life. She was an amazing woman!

May you both feel the presence of the Lord in the days ahead. One day, we will be reunited with both of your parents in Heaven. What a day that will be!

God bless!

Love,
Rich & Shirley Troup

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Memorial Events
for Barbara SWINNEY

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