Fern Christine (Cochran) Swisher, 99, of South Charleston departed this life, Sunday, June 14, 2026 at Hubbard Hospice House after a long full life of serving others, especially her family. Just as Jesus wept at the death of his friend Lazarus, we weep at the passing of Fern. We mourn the loss of a precious mother, but we confidently entrust her to Jesus Christ who is our hope in both life and death.
She was born Marsh 30, 1927 in Leewood, WV. Daughter of the late, Robert Henry and Maude Elizabeth (Clendenin) Cochran. Also preceding her in death are her husband of 72 years, Harold Swisher; grandson, Andrew Wayne Swisher; brothers, Robert, Lee, Arvil, Joe and George; sisters, Louise Scaggs and Virginia Hall who raised her.
Those left to cherish her memory include her loving children, Wayne Swisher (Angie) of Morgantown and Renee Swisher-Schnell (Mike) of Ravenswood; several nieces and nephews who were all loved by Fern but two very special ones, Paul Hall and Nancy Sue Stephenson as well as a host of other family and friends.
Fern was a loving, nurturing wife, mother, friend and aunt. She loved God and helping others. She did not hesitate to speak her mind. She offered knuckle sandwiches when warranted. Fern was witty, even in tough times and made many sacrifices for others.
Fern graduated from South Charleston High School and attended business school. During her life she worked as a hospital aide, sold Avon, Cleveland Plant Floral, Baldwin Supply, Dunn & Bradstreet and the Kanawha County Assessor’s Office.
She was a member of Frist United Methodist Church of South Charleston where she sang in the choir.
Special thanks to the staff at Jackson General Hospital and Hubbard Hospice House for their compassion and care.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM., Thursday, June 18, 2026 at Good Shepherd Mortuary, South Charleston with Rev. H. Wayne Swisher officiating. Fern will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband in Cunningham Memorial Park, St. Albans following the service.
Family and friends will gather for a time of visitation one hour prior to the service at the mortuary.
In lieu of flowers please make donations to HospiceCare 1606 Kanawha Blvd, W., Charleston, WV 25387 or Dementia Society of America PO Box 600, Doylestown, PA 18901.
Good Shepherd Mortuary 335 Fifth Avenue, South Charleston, WV 25303 has been entrusted with the arrangements.
