Kirk Schwabe, 69, who taught Taylor Swift criminal justice at Hendersonville High School and later worked as her security guard, died on July 3, the same day Swift married Travis Kelce. His death followed a battle with metastatic kidney cancer.
Confirmation
Schwabe's daughter, Sarah Gordon, confirmed his death to The Telegraph. Gordon noted her father's dedication to law enforcement and his students. She expressed gratitude that his role in Swift's story would be remembered.
Background
- Schwabe was a police officer in Chicago before teaching at Hendersonville High School in Tennessee, which Swift attended from 2004 to 2006.
- He then provided security for Swift when she was a 16-year-old rising country star.
- Swift called his class the "most exciting" she ever took.
- Schwabe left the security role due to burnout, remaining on good terms with Swift.
- Swift paid tribute to him in the 2010 film Valentine's Day by naming her character's teacher Mr. Schwabe.
Statements
Before his death, Schwabe told The Telegraph he told Swift she was a superstar and the sky was the limit. He also recalled feeling panic as her fame grew quickly.
His family said Schwabe remained proud of Swift's success and was happy for her and Kelce before the wedding.