Harriet Coda Swims

Harriet Coda Swims, age 80, passed away peacefully on May 9, 2026, following a short illness. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, devotion, and unwavering care for others.

Born on June 13, 1945, in Atlanta, Georgia, Harriet devoted her life to her family and to caring for children. Whether as a mother, grandmother, caregiver, teacher, babysitter, church volunteer, or trusted friend, she had a special gift for making every child feel safe, loved, and important.

She was known for her gentle heart, patient spirit, warm hugs, and the way she always made room at her table for anyone in need of comfort or encouragement. Harriet’s greatest joy in life was her family, and she treasured every opportunity to gather everyone together. Her home was a place of comfort, laughter, and unconditional love. She believed love was shown through acts of care — cooking meals, rocking babies, doting on her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and always being present when someone needed her most.

Through her work in childcare at Calvary Baptist Mother’s Day Out, First Presbyterian Playschool, and West Jackson Childcare, Harriet touched the lives of hundreds of children. The impact she made on those families and young lives is immeasurable.

She is survived by her children, Dewey Swims III (Stephanie), Christy Wyatt (Harvey), and Karen Nesbitt; her grandchildren, Brantley Wyatt (Julie), Kellye Wyatt, Dewey Nelson Swims IV (Summer), Houston Todd (Drew), Jamal Nesbitt, Joseph Nesbitt, and Janna Nesbitt; her great-grandchildren, Gracie and Brayden Wyatt, and Treyson, Wyatt, Iris, and Violet Todd; along with many extended family members and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Harry and Irma Fulton; her beloved granddaughter, Shelby Wyatt; and her husband, Dewey Swims Jr.

Though her family’s hearts are heavy, they find comfort in knowing that Harriet’s love, compassion, and lessons will continue to live on through the many lives she touched. To know her was to experience kindness, patience, and unconditional love.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 12, at Ridgecrest Cemetery.

In honor of Harriet’s granddaughter, Shelby, the family asks that memorial donations be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation at cff.org.