Clarence Lamar Swindle

Clarence Lamar Swindle was born on June 29, 1946, in McKeesport, Pennsylvania, to Simon L. Swindle and Mattie F. Bray (Swindle). On February 3, 2025, he departed this earthly life and entered into eternal rest.

Clarence received his education at McKeesport Vocational School, where he earned his high school diploma. Shortly after, on December 6, 1965, he was drafted into the United States Army and trained at Fort Hood, Texas. He later transferred to the USAR Control Group in St. Louis, Missouri, serving as a Medical Corpsman. For his dedicated service during the Vietnam War, he was awarded the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with Bronze Service Stars, and the National Defense Service Medal.

Upon returning home, Clarence pursued a career in construction, becoming a member of the Construction General Laborers Union 373, where his father, Simon, served as the head business agent. He played a key role in the construction of Pittsburgh’s Three Rivers Stadium and several other downtown buildings.

On October 6, 1973, Clarence married the love of his life, Minnie Mae (Murphy) Swindle. Together, they built a beautiful life and welcomed three children: Talitha Swindle (Braddock, PA), Tanisha Rae Swindle-Thomas (Pittsburgh, PA), and Taji Lamar Clarence Swindle (Duluth, GA).

With great determination and perseverance, Clarence pursued his dream of becoming a firefighter. He trained relentlessly, running from Homewood to Oakland, and in 1979, his hard work paid off. Not only did he pass the physical exam, but he also ranked fourth in his class. He was assigned to Fire Station #17 in Homewood, where he proudly served the city of Pittsburgh for 33 years before retiring in 2012.

Outside of his career, Clarence had a passion for gardening. He cultivated a variety of vegetables and flowers, often sharing his harvest with neighbors and friends. Known affectionately as “Mr. Bones,” he was a beloved figure in the Homewood community, always ready to lend a helping hand. Whether sweeping sidewalks, maintaining yards, or simply offering a kind word, he was a protector and friend to all. He especially took pride in watching over his daughters, ensuring that any suitor faced a rigorous test before earning his approval.

Clarence was a man of faith who, at a pivotal point in his life, accepted Christ and became a devoted member of Mt. Ararat Baptist Church in Pittsburgh, PA. He had a heart for young people and served on the church’s youth ministry board, dedicating his time to guiding and inspiring the next generation.

Clarence leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 51 years, Minnie Mae Swindle; his three beloved children: Talitha Swindle (Braddock, PA), Tanisha Rae Swindle-Thomas (Pittsburgh, PA), and Taji Lamar Clarence Swindle (Duluth, GA); eight grandchildren: Ajaylah Mae Lee Thompkins, Tahja Azhani Swindle, Aysaiah Marie Thomas, Talib Nasir Bracey, Talia Hope Swindle, Tia Faith Swindle, and one on the way; and one great-grandchild, Chanie Lee Rae Platt. He is also survived by his loving sisters: Barbara A. (DeWayne) Still, Marian J. Swindle, and Lillie A. Swindle of McKeesport and White Oak, PA, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Maurlaya Faith Thomas; two brothers, Athens Abdul Rabb and Haywood James Swindle; and his sister, Evelyn Joyce Brown. Clarence Lamar Swindle was a devoted husband, father, grandfather known as “PaP-PaP, and friend who touched countless lives with his kindness, service, and unwavering love for his family. His legacy of dedication, generosity, and faith will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

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