Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Add a Memory
Make a Donation
BORN
1946
DIED
2025
Michael Fariss Obituary
October 26, 1946 - January 28, 2025
Michael Pierce Fariss, 78, passed away on Tuesday, January 28th with his wife Carole Fariss and daughters, Christina Critzer of Atlanta, GA and Michelle Early (Travis Early) of Fredericksburg, VA, by his side. Three grandchildren that he was so proud of also survive him: Mason Bako, Madison Early and Sophie Early. He is predeceased in death by his brothers Bruce, Don and sister, Rachael DeHaven. He is survived by his sister Patricia George of Winston-Salem, NC along with so many wonderful nieces and nephews.
Mike was an avid Stephen King & David Baldacci fan, student of history and lover of his dog Charlie. He cheered on the Dallas Cowboys and cherished the friends he made as an educator in his working years as teacher to Director of Guidance. He also enjoyed his work with Hospice, ASAP and helping at the Cold Night Shelters. He is now with his Lord and Savior as he wished.
His service will be held February 8th at 2 p.m. at The Presbyterian Church of Fredericksburg, 810 Princess Anne St. 22401, with a reception following in the Fellowship Hall.
In lieu of flowers please send donations to Micah Cold Night Shelter:
https://micahfredericksburg.networkforgood.com
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Fariss
32 Entries
Liz Phillips
February 10, 2025
Very sorry to hear of Mike´s death. Thinking of you and your dear family. May wonderful memories sustain during this time of sorrow.
Liz Phillips
Opal Stroup
February 9, 2025
I am so sorry for the loss of Mike. I remember his civic mindedness - his working at his local polling place on many Election Days handing out sample ballots. He was a selfless care giver for his family and for a mutual friend in Hospice care and others. His wit and winning smile brightened the lives of many. May you be comforted by beautiful memories, the knowledge that Mike is held gently in the hand of a loving God and that love never ends. Opal and Earl Stroup
Ginger Bushman
February 9, 2025
Carol~ Just learned of Mike's passing and am so sorry to hear this. I know you will miss him horribly, but your cherished memories of him are so dear. I am blessed to have known both of you and to have worked with Mike within Spotys county and also beyond that. Scott and I wish you peace and comfort.
Dan and Robin Noakes
February 8, 2025
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Dan and Robin Noakes
Betsy and Ken McRae
February 8, 2025
Our hearts and prayers are with you and your family. We love you Betsy and Ken McRae
Jackie DeVore
February 7, 2025
Mike and I worked as instructors together at the Rappahannock Area ASAP program until his retirement. I sure missed him when he retired! He was so caring, funny and compassionate. He would not leave a student waiting for a ride in the parking lot but would stay to ensure they were safely picked up before going home himself despite whether he just wanted to go home at night. What a stand-up guy! Carole I know you will miss him terribly but 55 years -wow! I used to make him Christmas cookies every year and he always appreciated my efforts. Did you ever get any Carole?? My deepest condolences to the whole family!
Jackie DeVore
Donna Markol
February 7, 2025
I met Mike when he was on the Hospice support board. He was such a kind and gentle person.
Rest in peace, Mike.
Bruce Farii
February 7, 2025
The world is a little bit colder. We will miss you.
Gordon and Ann Mark
February 7, 2025
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. May your hearts be filled with wonderful memories and mornings filled with music. We will always remember the wonderful Alaska trip.
With Love,
Gordon & Ann
Steve Pelfrey
February 6, 2025
We called him Uncle Mike, too. Not because he was our actual uncle, but because it was kinda rude to call adults by their first names 40 years ago. And because he was there for us as teenagers at Stafford High. Always available, never intrusive, imminently trustworthy. Someone who truly helped guide us--me--to early adulthood. I haven't seen Uncle Mike since graduation, but I will never forget the impact he had on my life and, no doubt, that of countless others.
Rick Holcomb
February 6, 2025
I am so sorry to hear of Mike's passing. I worked with Mike at Courtland High School. He was a very competent and compassionate educator. Mike had such an impact on so many student's lives. He truly had a gift. My sincere condolences to the Fariss family.
Three Fariss brothers and their cousin.
Meg Fariss-Deranick
February 5, 2025
Uncle Mike, You have such a loving and accepting heart. I have so many happy memories of our family reunions; so much laughter from you and everyone there. I remember when you first brought beautiful Aunt Carole to the Creek when we were visiting one summer. I saw you two as soulmates. We will always love you. Your Niece Meg
Jim French
February 5, 2025
Carole: So sorry to learn of Mike´s passing. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Jim and Linda
Traci East
February 5, 2025
So very sorry to hear of the passing of Mr. Farris! Lifting you all up and praying you feel God´s love and peace through all of this!
Love,
Traci East
Edd Houck
February 5, 2025
My life is more complete because of knowing and working with Mike at Courtland High School. Always ready to help students find success, Mike had the gift of caring for those he counseled. May he rest in eternal peace-he richly deserves it.
Bonnie Black
February 4, 2025
I am sad to learn of the passing of Mike, a dear childhood friend.
We attended Hiwassee elementary school through Dublin high school together.
He will be greatly missed by his friends and family.
Rest in Peace my friend,
Bonnie Stilwell Black
Carole
February 3, 2025
You were such a caring, giving man to share my life of 55 years with you. I will miss you so very, very much, but I know you had too much pain these last 6 months. I loved you and still love you. Carole
Peggy Withers
February 3, 2025
Carole,
I am so sorry that you have lost your sweet husband. Mike was always kind to me when I came by or ran into him. I'm so glad that you have had your daughters there. I'm sure they are a great comfort to you.
You will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Blessings to you and your family.
Peggy and Gene Withers
Mary Jo Medosch
February 3, 2025
I first met Mike when he was given the job as Director of Guidance and moved over to the Administrative office. At one time, I even worked with him. He was always kind and loving and ready to reach out to anyone in need. Most times his language wouldn't convey that, but you could feel it in his heart. He liked to appear tough, but he was definatley a teddy bear. I loved hearing his stories over and over again. I'm honored to have worked with him and to become one of his friends. Carole & family, I am so sorry for your loss.
Marlene Haegele
February 3, 2025
Sorry to hear of Mr. Fariss' passing. I graduated from Courtland and he always had a smile on his face and took time out to talk to us guidance aides. I always appreciated that.
Trisha Gleason
February 2, 2025
My deepest condolences for your loss. Mr Fariss was always a happy, helpful, kind person. I know he cherished his family. Sending hugs and prayers your way.
Linda Vaughan
February 2, 2025
Michael was a wonderful & compassionate person. I know him from Hospice Support Care. He embodied the character of a true Christian. He was a true angel on earth! May he RIP - REST IN PARADISE!.
Mason Garner
February 2, 2025
Mike made a huge difference in many lives. Mine especially. I wish I had words to express what he meant to me as a guidance counselor but more importantly, a friend. He will be sorely missed.
Freeda Cox Clevinger
February 2, 2025
Michael was a dear friend from 1st grade to graduation at DHS. We are so saddened by his passing. His Hiwassee friends,
Freeda Cox Clevinger and Beulah Cox Ziegs
Jana Nelson
February 2, 2025
So very sorry to hear of Mike's passing. I worked with Mike at Courtland High School and he was always so wonderful and pleasant to work with and a pleasure to know.
Henry & Penny Fariss
February 2, 2025
Our condolences to the family. Uncle Mike was a great man that always had a smile and kind words to say. He will be missed.
Marilyn Holasek Lloyd
February 2, 2025
Carole and family, I am so sorry for your great loss. God be with you through this time of sorrow, loss and grief.
David Winn
February 2, 2025
My sincerest condolences to Carole and all the Fariss family whom Mike cherished and touted. He will be sorely missed by all of us who were lucky enough to call him a friend. The alternation of his gruff demeanor with one of the kindest hearts imaginable was the signature stamp of Mike's unique personality. His instigation of and love of laughter were infectious. It will be hard for so many now to be deprived of the "Mike experience." But we can all be thankful for the memories of his presence and for a life well lived. RIP dear friend.
Showing 1 - 32 of 32 results
Make a Donation
in Michael Fariss's name
Memorial Events
for Michael Fariss
Feb
8
Service
2:00 p.m.
The Presbyterian Church of Fredericksburg
810 Princess Anne St., VA
How to support Michael's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Michael Fariss's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more