Benjamin Raymond Swalley, a lifelong builder and caretaker, passed away peacefully on November 14, 2024. Born on July 11, 1933, in Bowling Green, Indiana, Ben was the beloved son of Harold and Hazel Swalley. He was 91 years old.

Ben's life was a testament to hard work and community. He met the love of his life, Bonnie, at the State Fair and they were married on October 3, 1953. Ben was drafted into the Army on December 9, 1953, he served his country with pride. Bonnie and Ben traveled the country while Ben served and created a family along the way. The two settled in Speedway, Indiana, before moving in 1965 to a farmhouse on what would become Swalley Stables in Brownsburg. It was here that Ben and Bonnie created not only a home but a sanctuary for family, friends, and animals alike.

Ben's career spanned over 30 years with Indiana Bell, followed by 15 years with Eli Lilly. Outside his career, Ben's passion was his land. Over the years, he constructed homes, a greenhouse, and even trucked in a log cabin, transforming his property into a small neighborhood. His legacy also includes Swalley Stables, which began with a single neighbor's request to board a horse and grew into a thriving business, once home to nearly 40 horses. Ben, his children, and Bonnie built the barns together, creating a space that combined his love for family, animals, and history.

Ben's connection to his roots was a guiding force in his life. Growing up on a farm, he learned early the value of hard work. Later, he preserved pieces of history on his property, including a church bell from the 1800s built by his great-great-grandfather, John Swalley. He restored the bell himself in 2009, honoring his family's legacy.

Ben is survived by his devoted wife, Bonnie; his children, Benita (Rick) Turner of Brownsburg, Jack (Robin) Swalley of Brownsburg. He was a cherished grandfather to 7 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Hazel, and two children, Mike Swalley and Ann Ritorto.

A celebration of Ben's life will take place at Matthews Mortuary, Brownsburg, from 3 pm to 5 pm on Fri. Nov. 22, with a memorial service at 5 pm.

Ben's legacy lives on in the fields he tended, the homes he built, and the memories he leaves behind for his family and friends. He will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his love for the land, and his dedication to preserving the past for future generations.