Milton West Soward was born on November 9, 1936, in Raymondville, TX, and passed away on July 13, 2026, at the age of 89 in Plano, TX. A man of integrity, determination, and quiet strength, Milton lived a life marked by faith, devotion, and love for those entrusted to his care. He attended Rice University, where the foundation was laid for the personal growth, discipline, and entrepreneurial spirit that would shape the course of his life. He later built a career in real estate as a self-employed businessman, earning a reputation for honesty, dependability, and fair dealings.

One of the greatest blessings of Milton’s life was the love he shared with his wife, Evelyn Irene McClaugherty. He met Irene in 1956 and knew he had found the love of his life. Their marriage was a lasting testimony to devotion, commitment, and the grace of God. In February of 2026, Milton and Irene celebrated 69 years of marriage — a beautiful legacy of faithfulness and enduring love.

Milton’s family was one of the great joys of his life. He loved his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren deeply, and his life reflected the importance he placed on family. Those left to cherish his memory include his beloved wife, Irene (McClaugherty) Soward of Plano, TX; his daughters, Jackie Miller and husband Gregg of Plano, TX, Jennifer Cali and husband J.R. of Houston, TX; and his son, Milton West Soward, Jr. and wife Lori of McDonough, GA; his brothers, Mike Soward of Rosebud, TX, and Joe Soward of San Antonio, TX; six grandchildren, Matthew Miller and wife Destiny, Mitchell Miller and wife Jessica, Andy Cali, Grace Cali, Lawson Soward and wife Lindsey, and Lane Soward and wife Ellen; along with eight great-grandchildren, Liam Miller, Levi Miller, Kate Miller, Isaac Miller, Emerson Soward, Robin Soward, Arthur Soward, and Vivian Soward.

Above all, Milton was a man of strong faith. His love for God and his love for Jesus were evident to all who met him. His faith was not merely something he professed, but something reflected in the way he lived — through his character, his devotion to his wife, his commitment to his family, and the integrity with which he conducted his life and work. Those who knew and loved him will remember a man whose life pointed to what mattered most: faith in God, love of family, and a legacy of quiet strength.

Milton was preceded in death by his parents, Bill Soward and Mary Allene Cecil Soward, and his brother, Keith Soward. 

A graveside service honoring the life of Milton West Soward will be held at Hawkins City Cemetery on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at 11:00 AM.