Sarah S Gourneau | 1938 - 2023
Obituaries-Pierre / Posted Dec 1, 2023 | 5:29 PM / 435 views
HIGHMORE, SD –
Sarah Rose (Swan) Gourneau, 85, of Highmore Health, went to walk with the Lord on Saturday, November 18, 2023, at Avera St. Mary’s Hospital in Pierre, SD. A visitation will be held from10:00am – 11:00am Monday, December 18, 2023 at Feigum Funeral Home. Celebration of life will be held at 11:00am Monday, December 18, 2023 at Feigum Funeral Home.
Sarah was born on October 21, 1938, in Tylertown, Mississippi. She was one of ten children born to John and Mamie Ellen (Lee) Swan. After graduation from Lexie High School, Sarah moved to New Orleans, Louisiana. It was there, where Sarah met the love of her life, Francis Gourneau. He was stationed there as a member of the United States Navy. When he was transferred to Newport, Rhode Island, Sarah followed closely behind. “True love” couldn’t be ignored. Sarah and Francis were united in marriage on October 30, 1959. Life took them to Texas for a brief spell. They then moved to South Dakota. They settled in Pierre where they raised their five children. Sarah and Francis shared 64 years of marriage.
Sarah’s love and devotion went far beyond her own children and family. She operated an in-home daycare for more than 25 years. She touched the lives of many throughout those years and remained in contact with several of the families.
Sarah’s hands were never idle. She always had to be crocheting, tatting or beading. Many have received beautiful handiwork she created. Her homemade jelly and the very best fry bread will not be forgotten.
In December 2021 she moved to Highmore Health. While there Sarah gained the friendships and love of the staff and other residents. Her roommate, Minnie, became an especially treasured friend. Sarah’s family is thankful for the care and love she received.
To know Sarah was to love Sarah.
Grateful for sharing in Sarah’s life are her husband Francis and their children: Keith (Jeanette) Gourneau, Pierre; Calvin (Janet) Gourneau, Pierre; Dale (Darla Hannum) Gourneau, Pierre; David (Kristi) Gourneau, Nooksack, Washington, and Mary Jo Gourneau, Pierre; 15 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren. She is also survived by her youngest sister, Janis Fay McCoy; brothers Ray, Pat and George Swan and many extended family members.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings John Lewis Swan, Mary Ellen Guchereau, Bob T. Swan, Julia Swan Davis and Joe C. Swan; and daughter-in-law Shawn Kalinay.
While a resident at Highmore Health, Sarah grew to love the people and community very much. In lieu of flowers, she would be pleased to have donations made to the Hyde County Parks & Recreation (HCPR) Swimming Pool Project. HCPR is a non-profit organization formed to support recreational and outdoor opportunities in Highmore, SD. Memorial donations can be made online www.hydecpr.org or mailed to HCPR Swimming Pool Project, PO Box 143, Highmore, SD 57345.
