Caroline Derrenbacher Swicegood of West Columbia, born 5/19/38 in Columbia, SC passed on 10/13/21 leaving all that knew her as a kindred spirit, whose love of life was only exceeded by her love and concern for family and friends.  Her wisdom, confidence and loving personality established her as a unique individual that everyone she befriended were truly blessed with unwavering kindness. She was the Daughter of Jack and Elizabeth Derrenbacher of Cayce, SC where she inherited her tough resolve and her sincere compassion.  At age 12 she would drive a jeep, shoot a shotgun hunting with her father on Saturday and play a piano sonata on Sunday at Church.  She graduated from Brooklyn Cayce High School in 1956 where she was an accomplished clarinet player in the band and the pianist in many musical programs; she was voted best all around by her peers and well represented that title throughout her life.

Upon graduation she attended Columbia College in South Carolina majoring in the musical field of voice and piano.  She married her high school sweetheart, D. Luther Swicegood in 1958 and with him answered the call to minister through the Lutheran Church and the communities where they resided. Her wisdom, confidence, personality and genuine concern for others were strong assets to the congregations that they served from Christ the King, Columbia, SC; Saint Michaels, Greenville, SC and King of Glory, North Myrtle Beach, SC where she spent many hours sailing with her husband, family and friends.  She never sought attention or acclaim rather lead by example when called upon to share her many talents from Organist, Choir, Sunday School and Nursery Management to Community ministry taking the responsibility of providing clothing, food and transportation to families in need.

She worked with Meals on Wheels in Greenville, SC and received Volunteer of the year Award from The City of Greenville in 1985 for placing Medical Alert Devices in the homes of the elderly and disabled. She was a devoted mother, grandmother and resource to many that would be in need of advice, assistance or just to listen. Her extended family was as large as her unselfish love to assist others. Her contribution, commitment and extension of her love for others was unsurpassed even as she battled cancer and numerous other health issues over 36 years.  She will be remembered by the tremendous number of families and individuals touched by her unconditional love and care.

She is survived by her Husband, Dermont Luther Swicegood of West Columbia, SC and oldest son, Dermont Luther Swicegood, Jr. of Lexington, SC.

A memorial service will be held on 4:00 p.m. Sunday, October 17, 2021 at Mount Tabor Lutheran Church; 1000 B Avenue; West Columbia, SC. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Mount Tabor Music Department, Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or Shriners Hospital for Children.