J.E. "Jay" Swindle

J.E. “Jay” Swindle

Belden – J. E. “Jay” Swindle, 86, of Tupelo, Mississippi, passed away early Wednesday morning, September 16, 2026, at the Sanctuary Hospice House in Tupelo.

Jay was born on October 29, 1939, to James W. Swindle and Ola Pearson Swindle, and grew up in Eupora, Mississippi. He was the youngest of 12 sons and outlived them all, both in years and in age. Jay was a gifted athlete, and excelled in the sport of basketball. He played throughout high school and attended Holmes Junior College on a full athletic scholarship. It was there that he met his future wife, Lucy (Pickle) Swindle, of McAdams, Mississippi. He went on to Delta State University, majored in Business Administration, and worked as a sales rep most of his life. He was also elected and honored to serve the people of Ward 6 on the Board of Aldermen for the

mayor of Tupelo in his earlier years. After retirement, Jay opened and ran a local produce market

in Tupelo for over 15 years, where he loved working every spring, summer and fall, and getting

to know his loyal customers.

Jay was a natural born entertainer and always brought the laughs wherever he went. He was a

longtime member of Harrisburg Baptist Church, where he enjoyed his men’s Sunday School class, and coaching youth sports for many years.

Jay and Lucy were blessed with two children, a daughter and a son. Jay was known to spend

many long hours coaching them in their various sports in their younger years, as they both

acquired his natural athletic abilities. He later enjoyed traveling all over to watch them play

during their high school and college years. They were truly the highlight and joy of his life, right

up until his last breath.

Jay is survived by his daughter, Terry Swindle Tann of Tupelo, his son, Randy Swindle (Sara) of

Mobile, AL, grandsons Zachary Tann and Tyler Tann, granddaughters Leighton Swindle and

Keller Swindle, great-grandson Halston Cranford Bonds, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins

and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his 11 brothers, Guither, Ershell, Oren, Euless, Huvis,

Ralph, Royce, Rexal, Clastal, James, and J.V. Swindle; his wife; and his son-in-law, Oliver G. Tann III.

Private family burial will be Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at Mt. Pisgah Cemetery in Eupora.

A graveside celebration service will be held on what would have been his 87th birthday, Thursday, October 29th, 2026, at Mt. Pisgah Cemetery with the Rev. David Smith officiating. Pegues Funeral Directors have been entrusted with the care of his arrangements.

Expressions of sympathy and fond memories may be left at www.peguesfuneralhome.com