February 15, 1935 – January 29, 2023
WAWNCHESE — Marie Helen Swain, 87, of Wanchese, NC, passed away peacefully at her home on the morning of January 29, 2023, surrounded by her family.
Marie was born on February 15, 1935, to Wesley Gilchrist and Marie Masson in Moorestown, NJ. Previously of Brigantine, NJ, she was the youngest of four siblings and preceded her brother Robert Gilchrest and sisters Ruth Stevens and Phoebe Frey.
A graduate of Atlantic City High School in 1953, Marie worked at the family-owned Gilchrest Restaurant for many years along the Delta Basin in Atlantic City, NJ. Later in life, she and her husband managed the Brigantine Boat Works and Marina in Brigantine, NJ.
Marie married her long-time sweetheart, Donald Gary Swain, of Brigantine, NJ, on October 12, 1958. Together they share three children, David, Donna, and Keith.
She is survived by her husband, Donald Gary Swain, of Wanchese, NC, daughter Donna R. Pologruto and husband, Lawrence J. Pologruto, of Wilmington, DE, grandson Sean D. Pologruto (Jolie), and grandson Ryan D. Pologruto.
Marie was a member of the Bethany Church of Wanchese and the local Red Hat Society. She loved traveling, gardening, and birdwatching. Most of all, being with her family and friends.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, February 3, 2023, at Bethany Church of Wanchese.
Donations to Bethany Church of Wanchese are welcome in lieu of flowers.
Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks, is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com.
