Florence Marie Swain, born in Sitka, Alaska, on Jan. 14, 1931, left us the evening of Saturday, Aug. 10, 2019.

To the very end she was surrounded by her loved ones, Stephen Swain, 52; Ra Mona Swain, 51; and her grandsons, Zackery Swain, 23, and Nathanial Hall-Swain, 16.

Florence was raised on Maxwelton Beach, where she purchased land and a home and paved. She was quite nearly the original DIY, or Do it Yourselfer, and farmsteader around.

She helped create “Show and Tell Antiques” with her husband Edgar Swain and continuously gardened and created. She was a dedicated gardener for 30 years at “Aldermarsh Retreat,” previously owned by Joy Moullan, and was an avid and active contributor to Jan Smith’s artisan-based “Christmas House.”

She was usually reserved, by nature, but never ceasing to surprise you with her eclectic knowledge, charm and stories.

Her last days were busy doing what she loved most, looking at gardening magazines, painting and visiting with family. I’m sure she is making new friends now.

Rest easy and well, and don’t worry, we’ll all “behave ourselves” down here.

Family and friends are encouraged to share memories and condolences at www.whidbeymemorial.com