Justin Swanson

Justin "TJ" Swanson, 40, of Moody, Texas, passed away on Thursday, July 23, 2026.

Born on June 6, 1986, in Oregon and raised in Montana, Justin lived a life defined by courage, compassion, humility, and unwavering devotion to those he loved. Whether serving his country, teaching young minds, coaching sweet cleats, or caring for his family, Justin led with quiet strength, selfless generosity, and a heart that never wavered.

Justin proudly served his country in the United States Army. As a Military Combat Engineer, with the 82nd Airborne Division and the 137th Engineer Company at Fort Bragg. His years in uniform reflected his deep sense of duty and his willingness to place the needs of others before his own.

After completing his military service, Justin found another calling in education. As a beloved third-grade teacher, he inspired and encouraged countless students with his patience, kindness, and unwavering belief in their potential. His classroom was a place where children felt valued, supported, and empowered to become the very best versions of themselves. To his students, he was more than a teacher—he was a mentor, an encourager, and someone who genuinely cared.

Justin's love for children extended beyond the classroom. As coach of the Sweet Cleats softball team, he found great joy in mentoring young athletes. He celebrated every accomplishment, encouraged perseverance through every challenge, and taught his players that character, teamwork, and kindness mattered far more than the final score. The lessons he taught reached well beyond the softball field and will remain with those girls for years to come.

While Justin was deeply proud of his military service and passionate about teaching and coaching, those who knew him best knew that none of those accomplishments compared to the role he treasured most—being a husband and father.

The moment Justin met Nora, he knew he had found the love of his life. From the day he first laid eyes on her, he loved her with his whole heart. Their marriage was built on unwavering devotion, deep friendship, laughter, and a love that only grew stronger with time. Nora was his greatest love, his confidante, his partner in every adventure, and the person who made him feel most at home. He never stopped pursuing her, never stopped making her laugh, and never missed an opportunity to remind her how deeply he loved her.

Together they built the life Justin had always dreamed of and were blessed with three beautiful children: Eryn, Jordyn, and Colt. Being their dad was not simply a role he filled—it was the greatest privilege, the deepest joy, and the accomplishment of which he was most proud. Fatherhood was the very center of his heart. He loved his children with a fierce, selfless, and unconditional love that was evident in everything he did.

Whether reading bedtime stories, coaching ballgames, golfing, rock climbing, practicing yoga, playing video games, preparing healthy meals, or simply sitting together at the dinner table, Justin cherished every ordinary moment because it was spent with his family. His children knew without question that they were adored. They were his greatest purpose, his greatest joy, and the legacy he was most proud to leave behind.

Justin also shared a special bond with his beloved dog, Bubbles, whose faithful companionship brought him endless happiness.

Those who knew Justin will remember his infectious smile, quick wit, gentle spirit, and remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcome and valued. He possessed an uncommon gift for lifting others up, offering encouragement when it was needed most, and bringing laughter even during difficult times. He lived with humility, served with honor, loved without condition, and left every person he met better than he found them.

Justin is survived by his devoted wife, Nora Swanson; his beloved children, Eryn, Jordyn, and Colt; his cherished dog, Bubbles; and a host of family members, friends, fellow veterans, students, colleagues, athletes, coaches and all whose lives were forever changed by knowing him.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Justin's life during a visitation on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Dossman Funeral Home.

A burial with military honors will be held on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery.

Though his earthly journey ended far too soon, Justin's legacy endures in every life he touched. He will be remembered as a faithful Soldier, an inspiring teacher, a dedicated coach, a loyal friend, an extraordinary father, and a deeply devoted husband. More than anything, he will be remembered for the immeasurable love he poured into his family every single day. His life was a testament to service, sacrifice, compassion, and a love so profound that it will continue to live on in the hearts of those who were blessed enough to know him.

He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.