PAUL JAMES SWOPE, 86, of 30 Willard Street, Hagerstown, Maryland, passed away at his home on Wednesday, August 31, 2011, and went to be with his Lord. Born May 2l, 1925 in Clear Spring, Maryland, he was the son of the late Raymond and Vergie Lowman Swope. He was in the excavating business for forty years. He was very well known in the community, and loved his family. He is survived by his wife of sixty-six years, Mary Swope; one daughter, Nancy Eichelbrger, and husband, Mark; son -in-law , George Hoover; three grandchildren, Dan Grove, Brian Eichelberger, and Paula Kretzer; and two great-grandchildren, Brittani Kretzer, and Bradley Kretzer. He was preceded in death by one daughter, Shirley Ann Hoover, a sister, and several brothers. Graveside services will be held at Rest Haven Cemetery at the discretion of the family. The Rev. Shawn M. Bushman will officiate. There will be no viewing. Arrangements by Minnich Funeral Home, 415 East Wilson Boulevard, Hagerstown, Maryland.