Colesville UMC Soloist Turns 90 After 75 Years in the Choir
By: Kenneth Clark, Colesville UMC
As the longest serving member and choir voice at Colesville United Methodist Church (CUMC), Marilyn Swafford Boerum’s 90 years are not only a personal milestone but also a living chronicle of faith, community, and unwavering service. For 83 of those years, Colesville UMC has been her spiritual home, and for 75 of those years, she has lifted her voice in song with the church choir, offering her heart and spirit to worship through music.
Born in 1935 during the Great Depression, Boerum's story is one of steadfast dedication and humility. Her journey with CUMC began at just seven years old, when her father, Joe Swafford, moved the family from downtown Silver Spring to Colesville and joined the church so they could be part of the community. While her mother, Carol, remained faithful to her Presbyterian roots, Boerum was christened Presbyterian but grew up in the Methodist tradition, embracing Colesville UMC as her own.
Growing up in a farming town with one church and one school for white families, Boerum was a curious and empathetic child. She vividly remembers the segregated Field Days. “Why aren’t we playing together all the time?” she wondered. That question would echo throughout her life, shaping her inclusive worldview.
Boerum joined the choir at age 15, after being overheard singing in the youth group. At her very first rehearsal, the director, Wallace Hitchcock, told her she’d sing a solo that Sunday. Though nervous, she stepped up, beginning a lifelong devotion to worship through music. Her extraordinary voice once drew a couple to join the church after hearing her sing during a service.
Her musical roots run deep. Although her parents were not musically inclined, her grandfather was a concert pianist, and her aunt was a professional contralto. Boerum once hoped to sing a duet with her aunt, a dream that never came to pass, but her solo career at Colesville more than fulfilled her calling.
Boerum briefly sang with the Montgomery County Youth Chorus and even auditioned for a church soloist job in Washington, D.C. But her heart always led her back to Colesville. “This is MY church!” she says firmly. That resolve has guided her through decades of change, joy, hardship, and renewal.
Boerum attended Colesville, Silver Spring, and Sherwood Elementary Schools, then Montgomery Blair High School. After a year at Mary Washington College, she completed her degree at the University of Maryland, where she pursued a career in teaching. When family needs called, she shifted to substitute teaching to care for her son, Kenny, who has special needs. With her beloved husband Don’s support, she continued singing while he lovingly cared for Kenny. Their 68-year marriage stands as another testament to enduring love.
Don’s family has roots at Colesville UMC that span generations, and together Marilyn and Don became stewards of a spiritual legacy. Their daughter, who had built a career in the arts in New York, has returned home, now they care for each other in the comfort of their family.
Boerum has served for nearly 40 years with the C-4 Clothes Closet, representing CUMC and still sorting clothes, staying fit by lifting boxes, and helping those in need. Her commitment to community care is matched only by her care for others in the pews.
Her reflections on racial integration speak volumes. She welcomed the integration of the United Methodist Church in 1968 joyfully, saying, “Where have you been? This is the way it’s supposed to be.” She cherishes the blended voices, cultures, and experiences that enrich Colesville’s fellowship and choir today.
Boerum credits her longevity to “good genes, moderation, and vegetables from the garden.” But her true source of strength is faith. “I am one who praises the Lord through my music,” she says. “Music has been a gift to me, and it has been my gift back to God.”
Even after surviving breast cancer and navigating life’s trials, music remains her healing balm. She continues to serve with the Sanctuary Choir, Comfort Choir, and supports music ministry with her presence, wisdom, and unwavering grace.
Music Director Curtis Richardson says she is a true pillar of music at Colesville and calls her “the church’s living memory, connecting everyone with her steadfast presence,” and Dr. Barbara Baker recalls her voice so powerful and beautiful, it brought new members to the church. “She’s a constant and comforting presence for so many of us.”
As Boerum looks to the future, she hopes for more young families, more children, and a thriving, diverse community. Her wish is simple yet profound: that CUMC continues to grow in love and welcome all who enter.
Happy 90th Birthday, Marilyn Boerum. Your song has shaped generations, and your presence has blessed us all. Thank you for the music, and the ministry of your life.