Final Salute

Joe Arnez Swain, age 59, passed away on Saturday, August 16, 2025 — the same day as the 25th year of the Warren Street Festival, a cherished community event founded by his mother. He was a one-of-a-kind man—a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend—whose free spirit, ready laugh, and generous heart touched everyone who knew him.

Joe was born on October 27th in Martinsville, Virginia and grew up in Rocky Mount, Virginia. He graduated from Franklin County High School and went on to attend Patrick Henry Community College. His early years shaped his strong work ethic, spontaneous nature, and lifelong love for people.

He proudly served eight years in the United States Navy as a member of the Naval Construction Battalion, the “Navy Seabees.” He was a Desert Storm Veteran and traveled through the Philippines, Newfoundland, Spain, and Turkey during his tour. His Navy years gave him a love for travel and adventure that he carried throughout his life. A true world traveler and storyteller, he brought light and laughter wherever he went.

During his Navy days he was known by many as “Jazzy Joe.” He shared his joy of music with countless people and always found ways to make a room come alive as a DJ.

He met his beautiful wife, Phyllis, while in the Navy, and was married to his beloved wife for 38 years. Together they raised four children – three daughters and one son – and welcomed grandchildren and in-laws into their close-knit family. His family was his pride and joy, and his legacy lives on in them.

After his military service, Joe became a skilled contractor and went on to establish his own general construction company, J&J Contractors, where he was admired for his expertise and leadership. He later continued his trade, working in various construction and operations roles, respected for his dedication and skill.

He was predeceased by his parents, Joe and Lottie Darlene Swain. He is survived by his wife, Phyllis, and his children, Samuel Brown, Doretha (Kenneth) Burrows, Asia (Dominque) Quarles, and Paris Swain; grandchildren, Vanessa, Kalisteth, Amiya, Kenneth III, Greyson, Shepherd, Shoshana, Nyla, Tahir, Tymir, and Keyon Jr.; sister-in-law, Nadine Brown (Jason); nephew, Gary, as well as many extended family members and dear friends.

Those who knew him well will remember his free spirit, his charm and charisma, his ability to connect with people, and his love for his family. He will be deeply missed, but his memory will continue to inspire those who were blessed to share life with him.

A public viewing will be held on Friday, August 22, 2025, from 1 p.m. until 6 p.m. at Hamlar-Curtis Funeral Home and Crematory – Rocky Mount, 195 Maple Avenue, Rocky Mount. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, August 23, 2025, at New Design United Pentecostal Church. Live Streaming will be available from the Hamlar-Curtis website. Select “View Live Streaming Here” at the top of the screen, then select “Facebook Live Stream – Rocky Mount”. A Facebook account is not required. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Condolences may be sent to www.hamlar-curtis.com.

Joe Swain program Hamlar Curtis Funeral Home