Gregory Joe Swartz of Joplin, MO passed from this life Sunday, February 23, 2020 at Freeman Health System in Joplin, MO. He was 53. Gregory was born November 7, 1966 in Durant, OK the son of Francis Joy and Beverly (Minson) Swartz. Gregory had lived in the Joplin area for the past 20 years moving from Commerce, OK. He graduated from Commerce High School class of 1985, N.E.O. A&M College in Miami and from Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, OK with a Bachelor’s Degree in Performing Arts. Gregory had been a manager for Books – A – Million in Joplin, MO, and managed Dollar General in Joplin, Carthage and Seneca. He currently worked in sales for AT&T in Joplin, MO. He was a member of the First Christian Church in Commerce, OK and very actively involved with Joplin Little Theatre, where he served on the board of directors as well as acted and directed . Gregory was preceded in death by his father and 3 uncles James Minson, John Ratliff and Dale Ratliff. Gregory is survived by his mother Beverly Swartz of Webb City, MO, his partner of 23 years Nicholas Rossi, of Joplin, MO, 2 aunts Ginger Ratliff of Joplin , MO and Shirley Minson of Commerce, OK, 3 cousins John Ratliff of Commerce, OK, Diane Minson of Miami, OK and Maria Grindstaff of Springfield, MO and several great cousins. Celebration of Life Services will be at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, February 29, 2020 at the Paul Thomas Funeral Home Chapel in Miami, OK. Glen Wiford will officiate. Services have been placed in the care of the Paul Thomas Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Miami, OK. Online condolences may be made at www.paulthomasfuneralhomes.com.