Mark Swain Short

Mark Swain Short, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, April 14, 2026.

Mark was born in Guilford County on April 30, 1931, to the late Oliver and Radie Mae Davis Short. At the age of 17, he answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Navy, where he went on to serve with distinction for 28 years, sailing around the world and exemplifying dedication, courage, and patriotism.

While home on leave from the Navy, Mark met the love of his life, Joan Miller, on a blind date arranged by one of his sisters. Their love was immediate and enduring, they eloped soon after and went on to share 70 wonderful years of marriage, building a life rooted in love, faith, laughter and devotion to family.

After his military service, Mark continued his commitment to serving others through his work at Moses H. Cone Hospital. He was known by all who knew him as a man of the highest character, with a strong and abiding faith, a tireless work ethic, and a servant’s heart. His love for God, his country, and his family was evident in all that he did.

In addition to his parents, Mark was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joan Miller Short; his sisters, Helen Hudson (Herman), Lillie May Forrest (Herbert), Dorothy Foster (Curtis), Linda DaBiero, Ruth Ann Van Court (Elmer) and Irma Love; and his brother, Robert A. Short.

He is survived by his four sons: Jonathan (Laurie), Mark Lindsay (Anne), Andrew, and Curtis (Sandra). He was a cherished grandfather, affectionately known as “PawPaw” to Dina (Tim) Regalado, Kristi Short, Jennifer (Chris) Massey, Sarah (Horacio) Saldaña, Sydney Short, and Andrew Tyler (Alyssa) Short. He also leaves behind nine great-grandchildren: Ashley, Ansley, and Makenzie Wallace; Brennon Short; Mark and Max Saldaña; Ava Massey; and McKenna and Keegan Short. Also survived by his sister-in-law, Nancy W. Short and several nieces and nephews.

A service to celebrate Mark’s life will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 19, at Rehobeth Church. Visitation with the family will follow in the Family Life Center. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Rehobeth Cemetery Fund.

Mark’s family takes comfort in knowing that his life was rich with love, laughter, and unwavering faith and that he has been reunited with Joan. His legacy of service, integrity, and devotion will live on through the countless lives he touched.

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