News Summary
The community of Augusta is coming together to mourn the death of four cherished residents: Daniel Widener, John Arthur, Jerry Swafford, and Dr. Michael Maurer. Each individual left a legacy of love and dedication through their contributions to family and community. Memorial services are planned, allowing friends and family to celebrate their impactful lives and remember their shared moments in a time of sorrow. The people’s memories of joy and warmth will continue to live on as Augusta stands united in grief.
Augusta, GA – The community is coming together to mourn the loss of four beloved residents who passed away recently, each leaving a legacy of love, dedication, and cherished memories. The deceased include Daniel “Dan” Anthony Widener, 69; John Patrick Arthur, 73; Jerry Swafford, 61; and Dr. Michael Maurer, U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel, Retired, who all had a significant impact on those around them.
Daniel “Dan” Anthony Widener
Mr. Widener passed away on October 19, 2025. Born in Augusta, he was the son of the late Ellis and Margaret Widener. Known fondly in the area as “Dan Dan, The Rent Man,” he dedicated many years to being a landlord. A devoted member of The Bible Chapel in Augusta, he was also an avid musician, performing with a band at the Barnyard Flea Market.
In addition to his musical talents, Mr. Widener enjoyed hunting, fishing, and using his CB radio to connect with friends. He is survived by his wife Joyce Widener, numerous cherished pets, and a supportive family that includes nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. Mr. Widener was preceded in death by his siblings, Artis Widener and Carolyn Hodges. His funeral service will take place on October 26, 2025, at The Bible Chapel, with interment at Westview Cemetery.
John Patrick Arthur
John Patrick Arthur died on October 20, 2025, at the age of 73. Born in Augusta, he was the son of the late John and Mary Ellen O’Connor Arthur. Mr. Arthur served as a facilities manager at Fort Gordon and was a devoted fan of the Georgia Bulldogs and Atlanta Braves. A passionate runner, he participated in several marathons and had a fondness for Snickers bars.
Known affectionately as “Bear” or “Papa Bear,” Mr. Arthur was family-oriented and is survived by his children Megan Mask, Kelsey Davis, and Patrick Arthur, along with his grandchildren and former wife Bonnie Arthur. He was preceded in death by sisters Lynn Ward and Claire Williams. A memorial mass for Mr. Arthur will be held at St. Mary on the Hill Catholic Church on October 24, 2025.
Jerry Swafford
Passing away on October 17, 2025, Jerry Swafford was 61 years old at the time of his death. Originally from Decatur, GA, he lived in Augusta for many years. Known for his love of animals, particularly cats, Mr. Swafford enjoyed watching sports. He is survived by his mother, sister, and many extended family members and friends. His family will receive friends on October 25, 2025, followed by a funeral service and interment at Westover Memorial Park.
Dr. Michael Maurer
Dr. Michael Maurer, a respected U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel, Retired, passed away on October 20, 2025. A graduate of Northwestern University School of Orthodontics, Dr. Maurer was a member of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church of Augusta. He was remembered as a devoted husband to Marsha Maurer. In his final days, he received compassionate care from Trinity Hospice staff. A private graveside service will be held, and memorial contributions may be made to Disabled American Veterans.
Community Response
The losses of these four individuals have cast a shadow over Augusta, where residents are remembering their contributions and the joy they brought to their lives. Memorial services are expected to draw many friends, family members, and community members as they come together to pay their respects and celebrate the lives of these remarkable individuals.
Conclusion
As Augusta mourns, the community stands united, cherishing the memories and the legacies left by Daniel Widener, John Arthur, Jerry Swafford, and Dr. Michael Maurer. They will be deeply missed but forever remembered.
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Additional Resources
- Obituary: John Arthur
- Augusta Chronicle Obituaries
- Legacy: Yolanda Thomas
- Obituary: Dr. Michael Maurer
- Tukios Obituaries
- Wikipedia: Augusta, Georgia
- Google Search: Augusta GA obituaries
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Augusta, Georgia
- Google News: Augusta GA
- Google Scholar: Obituary
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
