LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WHAS11) – Legendary auto dealer and civic leader Samuel G. Swope, 88, has died.
Swope passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, Dec. 9.
He was born on Aug. 24, 1926.
His family released a statement: "The family of Samuel G. Swope would like to thank the Louisville community for their support during this difficult time as they gather to celebrate Mr. Swope's remarkable life and legacy. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, per Sam's wishes, that a donation be made to support your favorite cause, or one of his: Kosair Charities or The Kentucky Humane Society"
Swope retired Dec. 31, 2011.
Over the years, Swope contributed to his community in numerous ways including service on the Boards of Louisville Water Company, University of Louisville, University of Louisville Hospital, Lincoln Heritage Council of Boy Scouts of America, Kosair Charities, Kosair Children's Hospital, Norton Hospital, and more.
Funeral Services for Swope will be held over three days. It includes a public visitation on Friday from noon to 2 p.m. and again from 4 to 7 p.m. at Southeast Christian Church on Blankenbaker Parkway.
The following is a statement from Masonic Homes of Kentucky regarding the passing of Sam Swope:
Masonic Homes of Kentucky's Board of Directors and employees are saddened by the news of Sam Swope's passing earlier today. Mr. Swope was a Mason for more than 63 years and shared Masonic Home of Kentucky's mission to provide quality housing, health care and services that make a difference in people's lives.
In 2010, Mr. Swope embraced a vision to develop a state-of-the-art health care center that provided recovery of illness and surgery in a private, home setting that became the Sam Swope Care Center at Masonic Home of Louisville. He continued his Masonic commitment, providing vehicles for resident transportation to doctor's appointments and errands when needed.
Mr. Swope encouraged Masonic Homes to "not only keep up with the times, but to stay ahead of the times."
We at Masonic Homes are inspired by Mr. Swope's generosity. Our lives and the lives of thousands of residents have been made better because of Mr. Swope.
We pledge to continue serving those in our care in way that would make him proud.
U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell released the following statement regarding Sam Swope:
"I was saddened to hear of the passing of my friend, Sam Swope. He was a Kentucky legend, and his name is synonymous with quality service. He was a great leader for Louisville and the entire Commonwealth of Kentucky. He will be greatly missed. Elaine and I send our condolences to his family and friends."
A Masonic service for Swope will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 11, followed by the Scottish Rite Funeral service at 7:00 p.m. at Pearson's Funeral Home located at 149 Breckenridge Lane.
The public visitation has been set for Friday, Dec. 12 from noon to 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Southeast Christian Church Fellowship Hall 1 at 920 Blankenbaker Parkway.
Swope's funeral service will be held Saturday, December 13 in the sanctuary at Southeast Christian Church followed by a private burial at Cave Hill Cemetery.
