John E. Swain graduated from Stephen F. Austin in 1958 and went on to attend Baylor University where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in history in 1962 and an accelerated Master of Laws in 1964.  He returned to Houston, Texas immediately upon graduation and became associated with Carl T. Denson, Jr., a long- time friend and mentor.  Mr. Denson was then a  practitioner with an emphasis in Real Estate, as well as Probate and Administration of Estates.  As the firm grew it was known as Denson, Tillman & Pribilski. In 1979, John became an equal shareholder and named partner in the firm Denson and Swain, Attorneys, P.C. This law firm continued in the Heights area of Houston at the corner of Washington Avenue  and Waugh Drive for nearly two decades.  Upon the death of Carl Denson, the entirety of the law firm was acquired by Mr. Swain. The firm continued under the same name until joined by S. Tyler Swain in 1998 and its name was eventually changed to The Swain Law Firm, P.C.

During the course of his career and while continuing to practice law, John served as Chairman of the Board of First Northwestern Bank, an independent community bank which was ultimately sold to Wells Fargo.  His legal practice continues to emphasize Real Estate Transactions and Probate and Administration of Estates. 

John was active in community service, his church, and related ministries. He served as Deacon at Garden Oaks Baptist Church and as a Member of the Union Baptist Foundation. Additionally, he held office as the President of the Optimist Club of Houston. He is survived by his wife Ledra Swain of 58 years, two sons John and Tyler, and seven beautiful grandchildren. John had a dry sense of humor and a perpetual smile. He loved spending time in Hawaii and Colorado with family and friends. John had great respect for the law, but viewed his law practice as an opportunity to help those in need. Most of all, John was recognized for his generosity, kindness and loyalty.