Carol Swick Willis

Carol Swick Willis, 64, of Alachua, Florida, passed away unexpectedly on January 6, 2026. She was born on April 3, 1961, in Gainesville, Florida, to Jim and Quinnell Swick and lived a life defined by love, generosity, and compassion to the people who mattered most to her.

Carol was the heart of her family. In 1996, she married the love of her life and soulmate, Joe Waylan Willis. Through their marriage, they blended their families and shared 29 beautiful years together, creating a life filled with love, devotion, and cherished memories.

Carol loved people in a way that was rare, genuine, and unconditional. She made those around her feel seen, safe, and deeply cared for. Gentle and beautiful yet incredibly strong, she always carried herself with grace and kindness. She was a cherished wife, a wonderful mother and Nanny, and a true friend to many. She brought love and happiness to everyone around her. Her greatest joy was the love she shared with Waylan and being a loving, dedicated mother, grandmother, and sister.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents, James “Jim” Swick and Helen Quinnell Swick; her beloved brother, James “Jimmy” Jackson Swick; and her beloved son-in-law, Collyn Loveall.

She is survived by her loving and deeply devoted husband, Joe Waylan Willis; her beloved children and stepchildren: Joshua (Melissa) Pope, Jeremy (Lindsay) Pope, Elizabeth Loveall, Rachel Gainey, Taylor Willis, Elliot (Clayton) Willis, and Miles (Anna) Willis, her treasured grandchildren: Ryan Lee-Buccheri, Abby and Joshua Pope; Rozelyn and Riverleigh Loveall; Madison, Lillian, and Mia Pope; and Alynna and Hunter Willis.

She is also survived by her brothers, Tibbs (Vicki) Swick and Mark (Dralynn) Swick, who was her best friend and with whom she shared an especially close bond with. Her sister-in-law, Sherry Swick (wife of her late brother Jimmy); along with numerous nieces, nephews, and many dear friends. Those who knew Carol will remember her generous heart, beautiful, loving nature, and the way she spread joy in both big and quiet ways. Though her absence leaves an ache that words cannot ease, her love remains, in memories, carried forward forever through her family, and felt in the lives she touched every day simply by being herself.

Carol will be forever loved, deeply missed, and always remembered. Our guardian angel in heaven, she rests in eternal peace, fully healed and reunited with her loved ones.

Crevasse’s Simple Cremation is honored to serve the Swick Willis family.