LOUISBURG, NC--Robert Lee Swanson, 90, of Louisburg, passed away early Thursday morning at his home.

Robert was the son of the late Clyde Henry Swanson and Rhiley Shearin Swanson. He was preceded in death by his first wife of 34 years, Emily H. Swanson, and a great-great-grandbaby.

Robert started out his career working at Western Auto in Louisburg before going to the City of Raleigh as a meter reader. He owned several Phillips 66 service stations around Raleigh. He later came back to Louisburg where he owned Swanson's Grocery of Edward Best and Swanson's Cucumber Market. He worked for many years as a tobacco farmer as well.

Robert was an avid NASCAR fan, and owned Swanson's Ball Team. In January 2012, he was awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine. He served Franklin County as a County Commissioner for 32 years, from 1976 - 1980, and 1984 - 2012.

The family will receive friends on Friday, November 22, from 5:30 - 7 p.m. in the chapel of Strickland Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, November 23, at 2 p.m. in the chapel of Strickland Funeral Home. Burial will follow the service at Lancaster Memorial Park.

Robert is survived by his loving wife of 23 years, Mary Hamm Swanson of Louisburg; daughter, Cindy S. Pearce of Louisburg; grandson Robert Brandon Allen and wife Melanie; great granddaughters Alexus Allen and fiancé Travis Macdougall, and Scarlett Allen; sister Florine Gupton and husband Dan; step-son Dewey Hamm; step-granddaughter Kaitlyn Durham; step great-granddaughter Adalyn Durham; and nephew, Scott Gupton.

Arrangements are by Strickland Funeral Home & Crematory, Louisburg, www.stricklandfuneralhome.net.

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