April 28. Former Huntersville Mayor Jill Swain has passed away at 61. Swain, who was also founder and executive director of the Huntersville Chamber of Commerce, served as town commissioner for eight years and mayor for eight years.

She also served as chair of the North Carolina Metro Mayors Coalition and as co-chair of the Transit Finance Working Group and has served on a variety of regional and local boards.

JILL SWAIN

She lost to John Aneralla in 2015, ran again last year but lost to Melinda Bales, the current mayor of Huntersville.

Sources said she passed away at the hospital after a brief illness.

Tributes pouring in

—”I know we were competitors, but I also know that she always had Huntersville’s best interests at heart. My thoughts are with her family at this difficult time,” Aneralla said.

—Cornelius Mayor Woody Washam said she was a “political legend” in the community. “She was a strong leader as she championed her beliefs which were at times considered controversial. My prayers are with her family,” Washam said.

—Former Cornelius Mayor Jeff Tarte said he was in “literal shock” at the news. “Having worked side-by-side as mayors and being friends I know Jill loved her community and loved her family. She leaves an amazing legacy and will be missed by many,” Tarte said.

—Mayor Rusty Knox of Davidson said this is a “huge loss” for North Mecklenburg. “I am saddened to hear the news. I’ve known Jill for a long time and there are very few folks that you run across with the drive and passion Jill had in whatever she was involved with,” Knox said.

—Mecklenburg County Commissioner Pat Cotham said she was devastated by the news of Swain’s passing. “Jill Swain cared about the people of Huntersville and she was always proud to welcome me to town events. She will be missed. May she rest in peace.”

James Funeral Home in Huntersville is in charge of arrangements. Two grown children survive her.