Charles Thomas Swaim

Charles Thomas Swaim “Tom” passed away peacefully on July 7th. He was 84. Tom is survived by his wife, Betsy Swaim, his 3 sons Jeffrey Swaim, David Swaim (Michelle), Derek Swaim and his stepchildren Topher Grennan and Stephanie Pike (Tommy). He also leaves his sister Nancy Crone (David) of Berea, OH. Tom was the proud grandfather of 22 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. Tom was predeceased by his parents, Donald and Edna Swaim and his first wife Jeanine “Jeanie”.

His 54-year legal career brought him huge satisfaction, especially being affiliated with Sherburne, Powers & Needham and leading the merger to Holland & Knight. Tom was known to many as a person to be trusted completely, respected beyond measure, wise not only in the law, but in life as well. He had a genuine interest in and cared for everyone he met, be they fellow attorney, friend, neighbor, handyman or stranger. Tom was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother and uncle. Everyone has a favorite story or memory of how impactful his presence was in their lives.

Tom was born September 23, 1940, in Fremont, Ohio. He graduated from high school in Washington Court House, Ohio. He graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University 1962, where he was president of his senior class. Tom graduated from Northwestern School of Law in 1965. He served as Managing Partner at Sherburne, Powers & Needham prior to its merger with Holland & Knight in 1999 where he became Chairman of the Board for several years. Tom was instrumental in effecting the merger and in the post-merger of the two firms. He was an outstanding lawyer focusing on construction, real estate and education issues. Tom made regular appearances before government bodies. He had extensive international experience, particularly in Europe and The Middle East. He was Town’s Council for several years. Tom received several awards and recognition for his legal prowess. He retired in 2019 after practicing law for 54 years. In retirement Tom was active in Concord, MA, serving on the town Finance Committee, Zoning Board, and Concord Prison Outreach where he taught classes on Entrepreneurial Leadership to inmates at various prisons. He also served as a trustee for both Carlton Willard Village and Newbury Court. Tom was the clerk for Arts, Literature and Music Committee for the 250th celebration in Concord. Favored gathering (aside from family and friends) were “Romeos”, his book club and the Concord Players Theater Group. His all-time joys were spent with his wife Betsy of 13 years, his wife Jeanie of 45 years and his children and grandchildren. He was well known and loved by many residents of Concord.

A celebration of life will be held at the Trinitarian Congregational Church, 54 Walden Street in Concord, MA on, Saturday, September 6, 2025, at 11 AM with a reception to follow. 

Live stream of the service can be found online at https://www.youtube.com/@TriConChurch/streams

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Mighty Moose (mightymoose5k.org), Highrock Church (Highrockarlington.org) or other charity close to your heart.

Arrangements under the care of Concord Funeral Home, 74 Belknap Street, Concord, MA 978-369-3388  www.concordfuneral.com