Nguyet-Anh Nguyen Swanson's Obituary
Anh Swanson, 75, passed away, leaving a profound legacy of love, leadership, and unwavering strength. Born on November 30, 1948, in Saigon, Vietnam, Anh was the eldest daughter of eight children. Her innate sense of responsibility and courage became the foundation of her life’s journey. In 1975, she led her family to the United States as part of the Vietnam Airlift, demonstrating her fierce commitment to those she loved and her determination to seek a better future.
Anh built a career that showcased her intelligence, independence, and passion for justice. She began as a military legal assistant in Vietnam, providing crucial support in a challenging role. Later, in San Diego, she made her mark as a data analyst, known for her attention to detail and strong work ethic. Anh was a woman of immense capability, admired for her independence and respected for her unwavering dedication. Her career was only one facet of her impact; her true power was in how she led her family and friends with unyielding love and support.
Anh’s family and friends saw her as a guiding force—a woman whose strength and compassion made everyone around her feel safe and valued. Her marriage to Bill Swanson in 1981 became the cornerstone of a life defined by love, respect, and shared dreams. Together, they built a home filled with laughter and support, a place where family and friends gathered and found comfort. Anh’s presence was always felt, whether in her wise words, her infectious laughter, or her genuine kindness.
Her passion for life extended to every corner of her world. Anh loved traveling, revisiting her roots in Vietnam, and seeking new experiences. She shared her love of classic rock music, especially enjoying concerts, and found joy in the simple pleasures of swimming, watching action movies, or listening to John Fogerty, the Bee Gees and Creedence Clearwater. She was an enthusiastic slot player, remembered for her spirited trips to the casino and her famous $10,000 jackpot win from Vieja’s Casino that she was so excited about—a testament to her lucky streak and her lively spirit.
As a mother, Anh was more than just a guiding figure to her daughters, Jackie and Melissa—she was a mother to many. Her home was a haven of warmth, wisdom, and support, where friends, family, and community members alike found comfort and care. Anh’s nurturing spirit extended far beyond her own family, and she became a beloved, maternal presence in the lives of countless others. Her kindness, strength, and open heart created a lasting impact, and she will be remembered as a motherly figure by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Anh’s love for nurturing extended to her garden, where she took pride in tending to her prized fruit trees. Her backyard was filled with the vibrant colors and fragrances of the trees she lovingly cultivated, each one a testament to her patience and care. Just as she did with her family and friends, Anh poured her heart into her garden, bringing life, beauty, and bounty to everything she touched. Her fruit trees stand as living reminders of the dedication and love she put into every corner of her life.
Anh’s friends and family will remember her as a strong, witty, and compassionate leader. She was the confidante everyone turned to, a beacon of resilience and warmth. As a devout Buddhist, her faith was a quiet yet guiding presence, inspiring her to lead with love and patience. Her impact reached beyond her family to all who had the honor of knowing her.
Anh is survived by her husband, Bill Swanson; her children, Jackie Swanson and Melissa Swanson Hoang; her son-in-law, Long Hoang; and her cherished grand-dogs, Augie and Leroy.
Anh Swanson’s strength, love, and enduring spirit will live on in the hearts of those who were lucky enough to know her. Her legacy as a powerful, independent woman will continue to inspire and uplift her family and friends for generations. Anh will be deeply missed
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