Terry Atwood “T-Bone” Swayney, 56, of East Lincoln, passed away in the early morning hours of June 23, 2025.

Born on January 30, 1969, in Charlotte, to Chiltoskie Swayney Jr. and Sylvia (Horne) Swayney, Terry deeply valued his family. He held a profound commitment to his parents and siblings, and he idolized his father, “Big Bud,” choosing to honor his legacy and memory throughout his life. Many Sunday mornings in his adulthood, Terry and his mother, Sybil, would prepare breakfast for their entire family, including his siblings and their children after a sleepover at whoever’s turn it was to host. Terry embodied what it meant to be a Swayney.

Terry was a devoted father who cherished his daughter, Kelsey. Watching her grow into a woman brought him pride and joy. He was especially grateful to witness her wedding. Although he will not see her graduate from law school, he always believed in her and encouraged her dreams at every opportunity, never doubting her ability to achieve them.

He shared a deep and lifelong bond with his brother, Buddy, who was a constant source of when Terry needed it. Buddy provided Terry with a steady foundation, always there with open arms, offering stability and unwavering love.

A lifelong Pittsburgh Steelers fan, Terry collected Steelers memorabilia. When asked why, he would often say it because he shared a name with the 1970s Steelers quarterback, Terry Bradshaw!

Terry loved spending time outdoors, especially fishing. Seemingly a Swayney family tradition, he spent countless childhood beach trips fishing the piers of Carolina Beach. Terry also bonded with his close friend and honorary brother, Roger, fishing Lake Norman and Mountain Island over the last several decades.

Growing up in Windsong Trail, he graduated from The School of Hard Knocks at UWT. Though the early days were difficult, the friendships he built in those years became chosen family, and he enjoyed the neighborhood reunions that kept their connection alive. For him, Windsong Trail was never just a place, it was a community that helped shape the man he became.

Terry was renowned for his incredible generosity and his remarkable ability to connect with anyone he met. Terry lived his life by putting others before himself.

Terry spent the final years of his life working hard to maintain his health and live with purpose. Despite living with stage five kidney failure, he defied the odds for over a decade with grit and grace. He recently celebrated a meaningful milestone in his sobriety, something his loved ones will always be proud of. The family would like to offer in extended thanks to Melisa Harrison for assistance helping Terry navigate his healthcare.

Terry is survived by his daughter, Kelsey (Chandler), his brothers, Buddy (Deborah), Kelly Swayney (Julie), and his sister, Kitty (Rex). In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Sonya, and his brother, Kenny.

Terry also leaves behind a large extended family, affectionately calling many others his brothers, sons, or daughters. He had a large heart, and loved openly. He will be missed by many.

Send to someone

Share this obituary with others

https://everloved.com/life-of/terry-swayney/obituary/

Copy