104-Year-Old Josephine Swift Celebrates Life Through Reading

At the age of 104, Josephine Swift of Coal Creek continues to defy expectations by dedicating her days to reading her favorite books. Despite a decline in some of her senses, she cherishes the joy that literature brings her. Her daughter, Bessie Lancaster, notes, “She’s not able to hear as well as she used to, but she absolutely loves to sit and read.”

Swift’s remarkable life has spanned historical milestones, including the victory of the Allied Forces in the Second World War and witnessing the first moon landing. She is not only a living testament to these events but also a beloved matriarch who has nurtured a large family.

Early Life and Family History

Born on September 22, 1921, to Benjamin Franklin Bolin and Clara Mae Leonard, Swift grew up in Cañon City, specifically on River Street, where the Starbucks now stands. She experienced the loss of her twin brother, Joseph Vern, who passed away at just one year old. Of the ten siblings in her family, only Swift and her brother, Bill Bolin, who still resides in Cañon City, remain.

Following her brother’s death, Swift lived with her grandmother nearby while her family operated a ranch in 12 Mile Park during summers. “We spent a lot of time together,” Swift recalls fondly. Her father was a carpenter who contributed to the construction of the historic water pipeline along the Arkansas River and entertained locals by playing the violin and accordion at dances.

Swift attended Lincoln School and Roosevelt High School before embarking on her own family journey. She had five children with her first husband, Lee Millhollin, Sr., followed by a set of twins with her second husband, Willie J. Swift. The family moved frequently in the 1950s, living in states such as Idaho, Oregon, and Washington before returning to Coal Creek in 1966.

A Life of Work and Family Traditions

Throughout her life, Swift held various jobs, including positions at a local cannery, a slaughterhouse, and the Apple Shed. She contributed to the community by cleaning houses and even worked in a motel located where a Safeway store now stands. In addition to her professional endeavors, she taught Sunday School for five-year-olds at the local Mormon Church.

A strong family tradition has always been Thanksgiving dinners, filled with laughter and good food, a testament to Swift’s culinary skills. Bessie fondly describes her mother as a “meat and potatoes” cook. Although Swift no longer embroiders, she has passed this skill down to her daughters. Bessie is currently working on a space-themed baby blanket for her soon-to-be great-grandson.

Today, Swift finds joy in reading, with a preference for novels by Nicholas Sparks and classic children’s series like the Little Golden Books. She enjoys watching television as well, all while being cared for by Bessie and her husband, Robert.

When reflecting on her life, Swift simply states, “Seeing my kids grow up” has been the most rewarding experience. She credits her longevity to a lifestyle free from alcohol and smoking, along with a commitment to healthy eating.

Swift recently celebrated her birthday with her remaining seven children, who traveled from across the country to honor her. She received cards and gifts from an impressive lineage that includes 45 grandchildren, 163 great-grandchildren, and 73 great-great-grandchildren.

For Swift, each day is regarded as a gift, filled with the love of family and the magic of stories.