Influential Car Dealer, Philanthropist Dies

A well-known Kentuckiana car dealer has passed away. Sam Swope retired from Sam Swope Auto Group in 2011 after nearly 60 years in the business. The company has two dozen dealerships throughout Kentucky and a presence in Clarksville. Swope was 88. The group says it employs approximately 1,100 people throughout Kentuckiana.

Swope served on many boards of directors throughout the years, including the Louisville Water Co., University of Louisville and the Lincoln Heritage Council of Boy Scouts of America.

The business is still run by the family, including Chairman of the Board Patti Swope and President and Chief Executive Officer Dick Swope.

December 9, 2014

Statement From Sam Swope Auto Group Facebook Page

“Our Founder, Samuel G. Swope passed away peacefully today, with his family by his side. Mr. Sam Swope was a true visionary in the retail automobile business. More than that, however, he was a community minded servant of all those less fortunate than himself. He was one of the most generous individuals you will ever meet. He believed that giving back to the community where he took his living was NOT an obligation, but indeed a privilege that he willingly accepted. He will be missed by all.”

Source: Sam Swope Auto Group