The Rev. Vardell D. Swett of Boca Raton, FL passed away peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, July 24, 2022. He is survived by his three children, Vern, Lori and Tamara, his daughter-in-law, Rebecca Swett and his son-in-law, Sean Nicholson. He is also survived by his three grandchildren, Kiva and Wyatt Ebert and Jordan Swett; his sister Dorothy; and brothers Purnell, and Bruce. He is predeceased by his daughter, Teri Swett and his former wife of 23 years, Audrey Michele who shared in his ministry for many years.
Vardell was born in Pembroke, North Carolina. Called to the ministry at an early age, Vardell served United Church of Christ congregations in Kingston, Binghamton and Honeoye, NY. In 1970 he was called to pastor the Terryville Congregational Church in Terryville, CT where he served for 23 years. Upon retirement he served as a prison chaplain and as part-time pastor of the Hope Mills Congregational Church in Hope Mills, NC.
In his later years, Vardell moved to Boca Raton, Florida. There he was an active member of the Boca Raton Congregational Church on the Hill participating in the prayer group and bible studies, preaching occasionally, and making home visits. He especially enjoyed singing in the church choir. During his years in Boca Raton, Vardell was also active in the VFW Post 10556. Vardell served in the Army in World War II and received several medals: the Good Conduct Medal AR 600-68, the EAMET Campaign Medal with 1 Bronze Star, and the Victory Medal.
Vardell had an incredibly deep faith. He shared God’s love not only with the people of the churches he served but with all people. He especially enjoyed visiting and caring for people. Trusting in God, he believed in Heaven and was at peace with coming to the end of his life on earth.
A memorial service will be held for Vardell on Saturday, September 24th, 11am at the Terryville, Congregational Church, 233 Main Street, Terryville, CT 06786. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Silver Lake Conference Center, United Church of Christ, Sharon, CT, in memory of his beloved daughter Teri Swett. (Silver Lake Conference Center, 223 Low Road, Sharon, CT 06069). Or the VFW Post 10556; checks payable to VFW 10556, in memory of Vardell Swett; (9400 Palmetto Park Road, Boca Raton, FL 33428).