Saralyn Drinkwater Swicord

Saralyn Drinkwater Swicord, a woman of profound faith, dedicated public service, and deep roots in the Bainbridge community, passed away peacefully on January 20, 2026. She was 85 years old.

A Life of Faith and Family

Born on August 4, 1940, in Bainbridge, Georgia, Saralyn was the daughter of the late Roy L. and Lydia “Doll” Drinkwater. On December 26, 1960, she married her high school sweetheart J.B. Swicord, beginning a devoted life together.

Saralyn’s life was anchored by her devotion to the First Baptist Church of Bainbridge. She was baptized November 12, 1952. Her presence was a constant and comforting fixture in the congregation for decades.

A Legacy of Service

After spending 20 years as a devoted full-time mother, Saralyn entered the workforce with the same vigor she applied to her home life. She joined the Decatur County Magistrate’s Office and, after only one year, was appointed as a Magistrate. Her integrity and sharp legal mind led to her eventually serving as Chief Magistrate Judge. Beyond the bench, she served her peers as the Secretary and Treasurer of the Southwest Georgia Magistrates’ Council.

A lifelong learner, Saralyn attended both Valdosta State College and Bainbridge College following her graduation from Bainbridge High School.

Saralyn was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, William “Billy Bob” Drinkwater (Erva). She is survived by her husband of 65 years, J.B. Swicord; her sons, Mark G. Swicord (Amy); Paul K. Swicord (Andy Hendrix); and John E. Swicord; her grandchildren, Colby Swicord (Karly), Brandon Swicord, Kyle Swicord, and Rachel Swicord; and her great-grandchildren, Callie Swicord and Baxley Swicord.

She was the heartbeat of our family and a pillar of the community she served so faithfully.

The funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 23, 2026, at First Baptist Church with Rev. Chris Humphries officiating. Interment will follow at Green Shade Cemetery with Mark, Paul, John, Colby, Kyle, and Brandon serving as active pallbearers.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at The Church at Swicord Farm. Online visitors may sign the guest register at www.bryantfuneralga.com. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to First Baptist Church, PO Box 155, Bainbridge, GA 39818 or perform a random act of kindness and don’t tell anyone about it.