Josephine M. (Holson) Swain, retired switchboard operator

Josephine M. (Holson) Swain, 83, of Lincoln, passed away peacefully, after a lengthy illness, at home Saturday, Feb. 18, 2017, surrounded by her loving and extended family, just as she had wanted.

Josephine was born in Georgetown, eldest of six children of the late Joseph F. Sr., and Mary A. (Sammons) Holson.

Josephine worked as a switchboard operator for over 50 years. She began her career with the Bell Telephone System and retired after 30 years. After her retirement from Bell, she worked as a switchboard operator and receptionist for over 20 years at the Stockley Center in Georgetown. 'Jo', as she was known by many of her friends, was proud of working as a switchboard operator since being raised during difficult times.

Josephine was a graduate of Georgetown High School Class of 1951. She was known to have great wit. Even in her last days, Josephine was the life of the party. She enjoyed traveling, reading, the arts, classic old movies, any kind of music and dancing. She was very proud to be able to purchase her first car by herself, a new early 50s bullet-nosed Studebaker, and this began a love of cars that endured throughout the years. She was a loving mother and grandmother who was very fortunate to enjoy three generations of family. Josephine had a special relationship with her granddaughter, Erica, and lived with her for many years. In her final days she enjoyed sipping on a spoonful of “Mr. Corona" as she called it, but especially bringing her whole family together as one to love, laugh and share great memories with her. She remained lucid and interactive in her final hours.

In addition to her parents, Josephine is preceded in death by a sister, Barbara J. (Holson) West.

She is survived by a daughter, Jeanne Lawson and husband Gary "Cap" of Lincoln; a son, Eric M. Swain of Milford; a brother Dr. Joseph F. Holson Jr.; three sisters, Mary B. (Holson) Adams, Patricia A. (Holson) Payne, and Norma L. Holson; four grandchildren, Erica Paquette, Chris Swain, Scott Swain and Dana Swain; and seven great-grandchildren, Ambrie, Brandi, Tagen, Kaylee, Kaiden, Alyssa and Abigail. Josephine was also very fond of her granddaughter Erica's husband, Toby, and her ex-daughter-in-law, Susan. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Jo will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

A memorial service will be held graveside Friday, Feb. 24, at 1 p.m., at Union Cemetery, South Race and Adam streets, Georgetown, for family and close friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to VITAS Hospice, 20773 Professional Park Boulevard, Georgetown, DE 19947.

Arrangements in the care of Short Funeral Services, Georgetown.