Obituary of Stephen Eric Swinton

Stephen Eric Swinton was born in Newark, New Jersey on Christmas Day, December 25, 1964. He attended Vailsburg High School where he met his wife Nita and was captain of the basketball team, graduating from the class of 1983. He earned a spot on the basketball team at Montclair State University, and in 1987, he became part of the inaugural class to receive a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the institution. In the same year, he founded Swinton Studio, where, for over 35 years, the award-winning design, marketing, and interactive studio served a range of clients, from Fortune 500 companies to entrepreneurs. He married his high school sweetheart and traveling partner, Nita, in 1989, before welcoming twin daughters, Nakia and Erica, in 1994.

Stephen is a past Grand Master of the Eureka Lodge #2 and past Grand Master of Ezeikel Grand Lodge AF&AM Inc. of New Jersey. He deeply valued community and provided his service and duties through the Masons, as well as serving on the Washington Township Land Use Board. Stephen will be remembered for his artistic design, his community service, the love he has for friends and family, and of course, his ability to make anyone laugh.

Stephen transitioned into his eternal life on Monday, September 16, 2024. He was preceded in death by his father Leroy Swinton and brother Michael Swinton. Stephen leaves to cherish in his memory, a loving wife of 35 years Nita Swinton, mother: Minnie Louise Swinton, two daughters: Nakia and Erica Swinton, two sisters: Yolanda and Ingrid Swinton, and two brothers: Derius and Kelvin Swinton. He shared a special bond with his nephews Troy and Andrew Hurdle whom he cherished as sons. He is also survived by seven additional nephews, five nieces, and a host of aunts, uncles, other relatives, and friends.