Mary L. Swan, 82

SANBORNTON — Mary Louise (Farrar) Swan passed away peacefully at home on June 3, 2026, in Sanbornton. She is survived by her husband of 59 years, Joseph Swan; her son, Michael Swan, his wife Jenna, and their children, Atlas and Everette, of Midway, Utah; her daughter, Beverly Swan of New Hampshire; her grandson, Niko Stycos of Brooklyn, New York; and her brother, George Robert "Bob" Farrar of Richardson, Texas.

Mary was born in Dallas, Texas, on April 2, 1944, to George and Mildred Farrar. She attended the University of Texas at Austin, where she studied languages, hoping one day to serve in the Peace Corps. Her life ended up taking a different path when she met her future husband, Joseph Swan, a young artist from Massachusetts, while spending a summer on Cape Cod.

Together, Mary and Joe shared a deep interest in spirituality and embraced the teachings of Sant Mat, an Eastern spiritual path centered on inner growth, meditation, and service to others. They eventually moved their young family to New Hampshire to be near Sant Bani Ashram and a growing community of fellow seekers.

In her professional life, Mary worked many years at Sant Bani Press as their office manager, and later followed her passion for healthy living by partnering with Catherine Lake to establish Swan Lake Natural Foods, both in Tilton.

Mary also played an important role in the creation of Pyareo Home, a vegetarian assisted living home in Sanbornton. She served as a board member, held various positions, and volunteered countless hours over the years, contributing to a home that has touched the lives of many dear ones.

For many years, Mary and Joe participated in a prison outreach program, visiting inmates who were interested in Sant Mat. Their belief in forgiveness and the value of every soul inspired them to offer friendship, encouragement, and spiritual fellowship.

Mary felt a deep connection to nature and found joy in hiking and exploring the outdoors. She held a dream of hiking the Appalachian Trail, and even into her 70s, she could often be found training with a heavy backpack in preparation.

Those who knew Mary will remember her as a kind and caring soul who found joy in serving others. Although she will be deeply missed, there is comfort knowing she left this world peacefully and has returned to the source of the love and faith that guided her throughout her life.

A celebration of Mary’s life is planned for 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 27, at Sant Bani Ashram, 30 Ashram Road, Sanbornton.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations in Mary's memory to Pyareo Home, where she devoted many years of service. Donations may be made through the Pyareo Home website at pyareohome.org.