Pauline (Hitchen) Swarts

Pauline Swarts, née Hitchen, died at St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital on August 17, 2026, at the age of 72. She was born in Manchester, England, on December 3, 1953, the daughter of the late Bernard and Gladys Hitchen. Pauline was married to Robert Swarts for 51 years and was survived by her children Melanie (Michael) and Darrin (Katie), as well as grandchildren Cole, Jacob, Ellie, Benjamin and Sophie. She was predeceased by her siblings David, Raymond, Barry and Carol. Her career included long service with Bell Canada and later GTel. A celebration of her life will be held at the Masonic Centre of Elgin, 42703 Fruit Ridge Line, St. Thomas, on Friday, August 28, 2026, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., with words of remembrance at 3:30 p.m. Cremation has been completed. Memorial donations may be directed to the Verspeeten Family Cancer Centre or ALS Canada. Arrangements are being handled by Williams Funeral Home, 45 Elgin St., St. Thomas.