Brenda and Joe Swaim: Settling Into Life at Governors Club

After nearly 20 years immersed in the coastal beauty of Daniel and Seabrook Islands near Charleston, Brenda and Joe Swaim felt it was time for a change. They longed to be closer to family in Charlotte and to reconnect with longtime friends in Raleigh. Their search led them directly to Governors Club, where they quickly felt at home.

Brenda has retired from her work as a CPA, and Joe is no longer a practicing physician. The Swaims have filled their free time by eagerly embracing this new chapter of their lives. They have three adult children, one granddaughter, and Jasper, an energetic Boykin Spaniel. 

Inside their new home, Brenda and Joe have thoughtfully arranged treasured furniture and heirloom china, some with extraordinary histories. Their china collection and secretary cabinet survived a devastating tornado in 1988 that completely destroyed their former home in North Raleigh. The storm struck without warning in the early morning hours, throwing the family from their house and leaving little behind. They all walked away with only minor injuries, and among the few things recovered from the rubble were delicate pieces of china, completely untouched. The cabinet, which was damaged, was lovingly restored by a local craftsman.

Choosing Governors Club felt natural to the Swaims. They say the decision was made easier by the expert guidance of Seth Gold and Rose Farrales of Governors Club Realty. Seth and Rose make an impressive duo, recently earning accolades as Best of Chapel Hill and ranking as the #20 Agent in the Triangle. "They were invaluable in helping us find the perfect property," Brenda says gratefully. The scenic beauty, rolling hills, and warm community sealed the deal. "We really love the change of scenery from the Lowcountry," she adds. "The fall colors here are something we're especially looking forward to."

The Swaims now spend much of their time in either the cozy hearth room, kitchen, or patio overlooking the 23rd green—one of their favorite spots. “We’ve always been porch and patio people,” Joe says. “We love being outdoors, especially when we’re cooking.” Their outdoor kitchen includes a Green Egg smoker and a gas grill.

Though new to the area, Brenda and Joe have already jumped into community life—joining the club, attending golf events, and getting to know neighbors. Brenda also joined the Women’s Golf Association.. “Everyone has been so welcoming,” she says. “We’ve already had dinners with neighbors and are looking forward to more as the weather warms up.”

As lifelong Tar Heel fans and University of North Carolina graduates, the Swaims are deeply rooted in their Carolina Blue allegiance. However, Joe also completed his residency at Duke, adding a bit of Blue Devil pride into the mix. “We welcome both shades of blue in our home,” Brenda joked, embracing the friendly rivalry that runs deep in North Carolina households.

In their downtime, Brenda enjoys bridge, canasta, and mahjong. Joe swims regularly, and together they golf and play pickleball. With a home and community they love, the Swaims are settling into this new chapter with ease. Whether enjoying a round of golf, chatting with neighbors, or watching the sunset from the patio, they know they’ve found the right place to call home.

Article originally published in Stroll Governors Communities Magazine!