Obituary of Kathryn Gilpin Swingle

Kathryn Gilpin Swingle, age 84, of LaAnna passed away peacefully Sunday, December 23, 2012 at home in LaAnna. Kathryn was born July 3, 1928 at the family home in LaAnna. She was a daughter of the late Ivison Houck Gilpin and Bess Dunning Gilpin. She was predeceased by her sisters Julia Gilpin Calahan, Anne Gilpin Mick, and Marjorie Gilpin Arens and her daughter Julie Swingle Wilson. Kathryn was a graduate of Greene Dreher High School in Newfoundland. She was a successful real estate agent for over fifty years. Starting in 1982, Kay managed the branch office of Pocono Realty Company, which is still in operation. In addition to her real estate career, Kay owned and operated The LaAnna Guesthouse which welcomed many people into her life. Her business sense was coveted by all who worked with her. In addition to spending time with her grandchildren, Kathryn loved to travel and read, especially about European history. Kathryn was a lifetime member of the LaAnna United Methodist Church, a recognized member of the Greene Dreher Historical Society, a former member of the Montgomery County Board of Realtors, and a past member of the Wayne Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. She is survived by her loving daughter Jill Swingle Porter and husband Peter Slocum Porter of Paupack, PA; nephew John Mark Calahan of Kingston, Ontario, Canada; grandchildren Briton Kyle Porter and his fiancé Jayme Mihalik of Lansdale, PA, Amanda Bess Porter of Paupack, PA, and Brian Slocum Porter and his wife Philippa of Oakland, CA; and great-grandchild Charlotte Porter. A Memorial Service is scheduled for January 5th, 2013 at 11AM at the LaAnna Methodist Church with the Rev. Anthony Grecco officiating. Private burial will be in the Pine Grove Cemetery in South Sterling at the convenience of the family. Donations can be made to the LaAnna Methodist Church, PO Box 142, Newfoundland, PA 18445; Greene Dreher Historical Society, PO Box 176, Greentown, PA 18426; and VNA/Hospice of Monroe County, 502 VNA Road, East Stroudsburg, PA 18301.