Betty Rea Wright Swain, age 82, of Newport News, VA passed away on Tuesday, January 12, 2021. She grew up in Waynesboro, VA, and had been an active Hampton Roads resident since 1957. Betty was the owner of the local’s favorite restaurant, The Lunch Bell, where she made delicious desserts for 37 years alongside employees who became her second family. She had a deep love for Northside Christian Church for over 50 years where she played piano for several Sunday school classes and participated in countless church events.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 57 years, Bill Swain, and parents, Shelah and Kermit Harris. Betty is survived by her son, Billy Swain (Debra); daughters, Blair Sanchez, and Shelah Swain (David); grandchildren, Ashley Darcy, Jay Darcy (Rachel), Tyler McKee (Catherine), Jennie Ann Swain and fiancé Zach Westfall, Mallory Lynn Dame (Zack), Grae William Muth, and Annie Kate Swain; honorary granddaughter Lila Kate Magro; great-grandchildren, William Swain Darcy, Meredith Lynn Dame, and Jeffrey Coleman Dame; and her sister, Peggy Argy; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

The Celebration of the Life of Betty will be limited to family only and guests are invited to participate in the service through live streaming (www.peninsulafuneralhome.com/video) on Saturday, January 16, 2021, at 1 p.m. at Peninsula Funeral Home 11144 Warwick Blvd, Newport News, VA 23601. Interment will be in Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery. Because of Covid-19 regulations, facial masks and social distancing will be required.

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home.