Elro M. Swindle Jr., born Dec. 12, 1920, passed away on July 25, 2011.

Elro lived a very blessed life, surrounded in his last years by his children. He was raised in Walker County and graduated from Auburn University with a B.S. in aeronautical engineering and M.S. in aerospace engineering from Air Force Institute of Technology. He served as a flight instructor during WWII and was also a veteran of the Korean and Vietnam wars. Elro enjoyed his Air Force career where he had great assignments in research and development as well as flying until he retired in 1969. His second career was as an entrepreneur; first in aircraft restoration and sales, then as a solar manufacturer in which he was granted two patents for the system he designed.

Elro and his family lived for 40 years in Millbrook. Following the death of his beloved wife Doris of 58 years, Elro built a new home next to family on Lake Mitchell to enjoy his final years.
Mr. Swindle was a fine example of kindness and generosity. Always willing to lend a hand, he helped with a rebuilding project after Hurricane Katrina despite his age. He was very active until 2010, until his Parkinson’s disease became well advanced. Never a complainer, Elro was of fine character and great integrity; he was loved and admired by many.

Elro is survived by children, John Swindle (Genye), Rebecca McCallum (William) and Ruth Henry (Thomas); grandchildren, Susan Wilson and Scott Swindle; and great-grandchild, Jasmine Swindle.

Memorial service was July 29 in Jasper.