On October 26, 2023, Jesus opened his arms to greet Farrell in heaven. He departed this earth at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital with his daughter Terry at his side. He was preceded in death by his wife of 66 years, Mary Ward, son, John Ward Jr, his parents Eugene and Annie McLean Ward, his 10 siblings Ida Cleo Ward, Katherine Estelle Laird, Felice Maples, Felix Ward, Ima Ward, Gloria Sale, Geraldine Ward, Eulene Norris, Flemming Ward and Barbara Prescott.
Farrell was born in Euchee Anna, Walton County, FL on December 30, 1930. He graduated from Walton High School in 1948 and from the University of Florida with a degree in Agriculture in 1952. After college graduation he joined the United States Air Force as a Pilot where he flew C-130 cargo planes until 1968 when he trained to fly HH-43 helicopters for the Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Services Squadron. He served in Viet Nam in 1970 continuing to fly Air Rescue. Farrell and Mary traveled the country and abroad while in the Air Force before his retirement as a Lt Col. They settled in Tallahassee in 1972 where they owned and operated The Bath Boutique in the Northwood Mall for many years. He was a proud Papa to Brian Kyle Stevens and Kayla Elise Palko (John). Kayla and John blessed him with two great grandchildren Ashlynn and Trip. In addition to his daughter Terry Ward Stevens (Jeff) he is survived by numerous nieces and nephews. Farrell was a very strong and quiet man but always enjoyed sharing stories about his background and heritage.
There will be a graveside ceremony with military honors at the Tallahassee National Cemetery on November 1 at 11:00 AM. Memorial service will be held at Westminster Presbyterian on November 1, at 12:30 PM. In lieu of flowers the family suggests a donation to Westminster Presbyterian Church in memory of Farrell. Susie Mozolic of Bevis Funeral home is handling arrangements for the family.
[Source: Tallahassee Democrat, October 28, 2023]
[Burial: Tallahassee National Cemetery, Tallahassee]