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Skylar Elizabeth Fox McFarland
1996 - 2015
Skylar Elizabeth Fox McFarland
1996 - 2015
Obituary
Guest Book
Skylar McFarland Obituary
There is no way to distill her inquisitive, clever self into words, but Skye lived fully. She counted meteors over the Pacific Ocean, hiked California's redwood forests, camped Oregon's sand dunes, and read by the light of Alaska's midnight sun. She waved to an eel 60 feet below the Catalina waves and surveyed the earth's curvature free-falling from 10,000 feet above the Louisiana landscape. Skye was the first to touch her brother-being-born and announced that his skin felt like a salamander. Nine years later, she was also the one who swam with him in a cold Irish loch so he could be brave.
Skye didn't just walk in Memphis, she danced. She ate crepes in France and gelato in Italy and trod on dusty Roman cobblestones. She zip-lined through treetops, kissed a dolphin, and spelunked a Mexican cave. She dug for crystals in the wilds of Arkansas and followed in the footsteps of Al Capone in the Gangster Museum. She once ate a burrito the size of her arm. She wore funny hats. She loved to draw, compose on the piano, and sit in the calm of the boat, fishing. She liked to dig through thrift stores for funky pants and pawn shops for treasures. She spent many summers at Duke TIP and loved every minute of it. She shot ducks on the Prairie and could take down the even the most vicious skeet. She loved cats and didn't think five was quite enough. She had a sly sense of humor. Skye was the most curious and creative person imaginable and her whole being was beautiful.
Skye graduated from the Louisiana School of Math, Science, and the Arts in 2013 and attended Louisiana Tech University until her death. She was never afraid to voice her opinion in class or elsewhere. She liked the Nightvale podcast and co-hosted an EDM radio show on KLPI under the DJ tag Cecil; she was proud of her success raising money in support of the university station. Skye was active in the student group Prism and passionately believed in equality and acceptance for all individuals.
She also kept painful secrets and in the end they overwhelmed her. She took her own life on February 1, 2015. There will forever be a Skylar-shaped hole in the universe.
She was so loved! Left deeply grieving are her parents, Sarah McFarland and Mark Melder; her brother Griffin; her step-brother Matthew; her grandparents, Lois and David McFarland, Ellis and Trent Melder, and Nancy and Hec Braud; aunts and uncles Rachel and Tim Kummer, Sara and Bobby Bond, Kim and James Melder, and Rhonda and Daniel Braud; many cousins; and beloved friends.
A celebration of Skye's life will be held at the Natchitoches Country Club on Saturday, February 7th at 11:00. All are welcome to share stories about the adventure that was her amazing life.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in support of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Hug your dear ones close and do an act of loving kindness for a stranger.
Kenzie
April 14, 2023
Thinking of you as I always do. I have been thinking about the time you had to leave Grandma’s to fly back to Louisiana when we had just had the best summer together. I was sitting in Granddads den and moping about since you left. I heard the garage open and you jump scared me. “HA! Gotcha.” Your flight had been cancelled and I had never been so excited for you to stay a day longer. I remember us jumping up and down and immediately running to get ready to swim. I miss you so much. I wish we could swim together again.
Jamie
February 8, 2023
I will always wish we had more time with you- I think of you so often. Love you forever.
Miki Snyder
January 29, 2022
Think of Skye often. She was such a beautiful soul. Know you miss her every day, but encourage to let her live in your hearts through the great memories she blessed you with. God bless you!
Your sisters
January 31, 2016
We loved you more than you can ever imagine and we will always carry you in our hearts
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Pooja
July 25, 2015
Skye, I haven't seen you in maybe 4 years now and yet I'm still very shaken finding this out today. We attended Duke TIP together and I do wish I had taken initiative to know you better; you seemed very nice :( My thoughts, prayers, and love are with you and your family.
Elizabeth (EJ) Stephens-Vite
February 26, 2015
I remember Skye how she always was the friendliest person around, and was always there to give you a hug when you needed it most. She was going to me my maid of honor and She was the angel who stopped me from committing suicide in 2011 and she will always have a special place in my heart. I will never forget her and the family is in my prayers <3
Kat Mabini
February 8, 2015
I only met Skylar in passing but I know she brought light and fun to those around her. My thoughts go out to her family and friends.
James Bruning, Jr.
February 8, 2015
My thoughts and prayers I with you and your family.
Marci Carrasquillo
February 8, 2015
Sarah, I just don't have the words... All my love to you and to your family.
Nancy Brown
February 7, 2015
I did not know Skylar, but I just read her obituary. It is the most beautiful tribute to someone that I have ever read. I have no doubt that she was someone I would have loved, admired, and wanted to spend time with. And I would have been devastated by her departure as I am sure you are. She was a beauty and the light inside her cannot be denied. I see it in her face. Take care as you grieve. It is a process and there really is no end to it. My brother killed himself 2 years ago, and I am still at a loss to understand, other than to realize that I did not know the person he was when he did that. Memories of his goodness sustain me, as I'm sure memories of your loving daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece, and friend will carry you.
Fred,Sonia & Family Nichols
February 7, 2015
Our sincerest condolences at this very sad time for your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Roxanne Wooff
February 7, 2015
I'm so terribly sorry for what you have had to go through. I know it must be very hard, but stay focused on the times to come.
Skye-- We didn't know each other long, but I miss you so much. Everything makes me think of you, but it's comforting to know I'll be able to see you in the stars.
Rosanna Walker
February 7, 2015
Dear Sarah,
I am thinking of you today. I feel so desolate and numb. I remember Skye as an amazingly curious delightful little girl. Through my tears I am sending love and hugs to you with all my heart.
Rosanna
Greg Woods
February 7, 2015
Dr. McFarland,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I am sorry for your loss.
Antonio Quiros
February 7, 2015
I am so sorry to hear the sad news about Skylar from my son, a current student at LSMSA. The community there is feeling a great loss. I didn't know her but her really nice obit shows that she was a wonderful gift to all for 20 years. My condolences to Mr Trent and all the family from your former neighbor up the hill.
Mark Kraus
February 7, 2015
Dr. McFarland,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Always remember to rejoice in the time you had with Skylar. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Graham Bell
February 7, 2015
To Skye's loving family: I'm so sorry for your loss, and I wish you all the best in the hard days to come.
To Skye: I miss you, dearest friend. I'll always cherish the time we had and the things I learned from you. You were a bright light in my life from the moment we met and you'll never be forgotten.
Katia Colavito
February 6, 2015
Sarah and Mark,
Rocky and I send you our most heartfelt condolences. You will be in our thoughts and prayers. Gavin is on his wAy to attend Skye's Memorial. May God help you find peace.
Katia and Rocky Colavito
Laura Harmon
February 6, 2015
Skye was a beautiful person, and a wonderful friend. We had so much fun when we talked, and they were always such a bright light.
My deepest sympathies to the family. I'm so sorry for your loss.
Karen & Lana Robinson
February 6, 2015
We are so sorry for your loss. Sending prayers, and wishing you love, and peace, and healing.
Edgar Speer
February 6, 2015
Skye was one of the most influential people in my life. Not only did Skye help me through my own crises, they helped me make it another year. my own life at this point is really owed to Skye and I send my condolences to the entire family. She was really something else and will be dearly missed.
Molly Robinson
February 6, 2015
Skye, both Edgar and I loved you so much. I don't know if your family knows about us, but we met you thanks to Night Vale and our friendship continued through that. To your family: Skye was such an amazing, amazing person, and both my boyfriend and I valued their friendship; their shared stories and experiences; their sense of humor. Everything. Thank you so much for that beautiful obituary and bringing Skye into this world the way you did. They were truly a beautiful person, inside and out. You have both of our sympathies and love going your way.
Elanore Carbone
February 6, 2015
I miss you, Skye. I will never forget how much of a great friend you were to me. I hope that you're happier now.
I don't know. I miss you. We all do.
May you rest in peace.
Laura Whitehead Thomas
February 6, 2015
Mark, I am so sorry for your loss. I did not know your daughter but it is obvious that she was an amazing young lady and will be greatly missed. You and your family are in my prayers.
Brian Etheridge
February 6, 2015
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. What a loss for us all.
John Hillebrand
February 6, 2015
My deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences. She was a very special and inspiring person and you helped her live a full and exciting life. John Hillebrand
John Hillebrand
February 6, 2015
My deepest and most heartfelt condolences. May her rich and vibrant life continue to inspire you and those you hold close in your family and community. She was a precious treasure.
Julie Sprung
February 5, 2015
My dear family, This is such a difficult time to live in Indiana. I wish I could give each of you a hug and just hold you in my arms. Only God can answer all of our questions, but know that His heavenly arms are wrapped around Skylar for all eternity. God loves her and will bring her peace and comfort. For us, the grieving, we are left with a hole in our hearts that only memories can fill. Keep on holding each other together in love. My prayers are with all of you. May God give the weary and grieving the tears that show that you loved and were loved by Skylar. Love, Aunt Julie
Jennifer Wilson
February 5, 2015
Trent and Ellis, words cannot begin to express my sadness at this tragic loss you have experienced. All I know if that I believe somehow God willuse this in such a mighty way in all of yourlives. My deepest prayer for all of you is Romans 15:13. Much love.
Susie Speetjens
February 5, 2015
Thinking of you all and sending our love.
Susie Bond Speetjens and family
Association of Catholic Tech Students
February 5, 2015
The Association of Catholic Tech Students (ACTS) extends our deepest condolences to Skylar's family and friends. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Mandi O'Rourke
February 5, 2015
To the McFarland Family, I am grieved over your loss. Please accept my heartfelt condolences and know that I and my family will keep you in our prayers.
Hulsey
February 5, 2015
I do not know your family but came across your beautiful daughters obituary. My heart breaks for you all. To have anyone but especially your child die by suicide I just can't imagine your gut wrenching pain. My family sends prayers to you all. She is a beautiful young lady who accomplished so much in her short time here on earth. Hugs and prayers to you all. The Hulsey Family
Nicol Delphin
February 5, 2015
My deepest sympathy to you and your family. She was always a joy to be around and she will be dearly missed. May she rest in peace and know that I am offering prays in her name. God Bless.
Anesha Roberson
February 5, 2015
My prayers go out to Dr. McFarland and her family. I only know Dr. McFarland from teaching me at NSU, but I want to take a moment to offer my condolences. It is my prayer that you find comfort from family, friends, and God's word during this time.
Christina Pinckard
February 5, 2015
Dr. McFarland, and Family. Words can not express how I am feeling right now. I learned last night of this and was heart broken. I am keeping you in my prayers and hope that you know that she is in heaven watching over you. I am just devastated that such a brilliant mind was taken so soon. Prayers be with you and your entire family.
February 5, 2015
Meet Skye my freshman year, she was the sweetest thing! I'll never forget you. . Rest Beautifully Skye !
- Sherry
val anderson
February 5, 2015
Sounds like an amazing young last
Earl A. Creppel
February 5, 2015
My deepest sympathy and prayers are with you and your family.
Tonya Wynn
February 4, 2015
Skye had such a beautiful smile, full of laughter and She will be greatly missed. I had the pleasure of getting to know her while she attended Lsmsa, also had the pleasure of traveling with her in Europe, Skye was very smart and talented, Skye had a radiant smile that would light up a room.
Nick Smith
February 4, 2015
I will forever consider it an honor to have known Skye. Skye was certainly the fearlessly bold friend of the overlooked, oppressed, and sometimes forgotten. Skye was a friend, a leader, and a teacher. Skye was never afraid to politely and appropriately shed light on others' ignorance. Skye was an inspiration in that regard. I will forever hold dear what Skye has taught me through our limited interactions. It was a delight to have known Skye. I send my deepest sympathies to Dr. Melder and the rest of Skye's family. Thank you for sharing Skye with us.
Ashleigh Daniels
February 4, 2015
I went to Natchitoches Central with Skylar, and even though we were not best friends, I can remember having lunch with her in the atrium. She was very outspoken and intelligent, but the thing I will always remember most was how kind she was, and how she made a point to include everyone in the conversation. My heart goes out to her family, and I pray that her memory is never forgotten.
Belinda, Randy & Joshua Page
February 4, 2015
My most sincere sympathy for the loss of such a beautiful soul as Skye. She will truly be missed. Prayer and love for the family at this time.
Barbara Cole
February 4, 2015
I lost my grandson at 20, not from suicide, but a tragic accident! He too left many wonderful memories like Skylar. This is the way we must remember them! I didn't know Sylar nor do I know you, but the loss of one so young, beautiful, intelligent and gentle is never gotten over! We just move through this world living the way that will get us to them for eternity! Sending blessings!
Sean Pinion
February 4, 2015
I met Skye my junior year through Prism, and she was so bright and beautiful. I wish I could have gotten closer to her because she definitely had the personality of a life-long friend. My prayers go out to the family.
February 4, 2015
Our deepest sympathy.
Lisa Wolffe and Jim Picht
Cecilia Hsu
February 4, 2015
I never talked to Skye, but I remember seeing her at TiP during the summer of 2012. She had a bright, friendly personality, and I always wished that I could emulate confidence like she did.
Stephen Brooks
February 4, 2015
Sarah and Mark,
No one ever truly leaves us. This is but a transformation -- simply a birth into a different form and place.
Robert Hadden
February 4, 2015
I am so sorry to hear of her passing. Learning it waso suicide, makes it a little harder. Praying for all of you & extended family.
Ashley Davis
February 4, 2015
Skye and I had class together last quarter and in our group project I could always count on her. She was always so bright, giggly, and outspoken. I will always remember her fondly. My prayers are with you.
Star Hamous
February 4, 2015
Mrs Sarah
We are so sorry for your loss and pain. GOD be with you ...we are praying for you and your family.
Juddy and Star Hamous
Bill & Polly St. Andre Holly
February 4, 2015
Coach Melder & family, we are so sorry to hear of your loss. Our prayers are with y'all at this time.
Amy Werner
February 4, 2015
Sarah and Mark- This is one of the most beautiful life tributes I have ever read. She did truly live life to the fullest. My heart breaks for you. We'll be thinking of you in the days, weeks and months to come.
Stranger to Skye
February 4, 2015
Did not know her but from obit, she lived a beautiful life and saw and did more than most people do in a life time. She was a beautiful young lady. Sorry for your loss.
Michelle Pichon
February 4, 2015
Sarah, I have no words. I do have love and support for you. Spreading light for you and Skylar.
Barbara Cook
February 4, 2015
Sarah -- My prayers go out to you --peace to you and your family. I remember such a pretty and smart little girl.
Amy McIntyre
February 4, 2015
Skye sounds like she was perfectly named, full of nature, wonder, and vast unknown territory. My heart goes out to the family as your loss must feel so immense and overwhelming.
Walter Clark
February 4, 2015
Oh my what a beautiful life she experienced, and lived. Such a pretty young lady & such a sad ending. All of her friends & family will be in my prayers.
Mary Striegel
February 4, 2015
I'm sorry for your loss. My heart breaks for you. I just keep thinking about Paul and Skylar in Middle school...
Miki Snyder
February 4, 2015
She was indeed a beautiful young lady, one that will live in our hearts and minds forever. Rest assured she will be missed by all, but by none more than you! Our love goes with you.
Former Student
February 4, 2015
She was an amazing girl and such a bright and shining star in the universe. My sincere condolences to two of the most wonderful people and professors and to Griffin. These are just words and cannot take away the sadness, but her memory and energy remain always. She impacted anyone that she met, and though I haven't seen you or her in many years, I remember her amazing wit and creativity. Sending love and light to your family.
Tana Jeansonne
February 4, 2015
Mark and Sarah,
For your loss, I am very sorry. While reading about Skye, I became intrigued with all of her adventures and know that you will carry those bountiful memories in your hearts forever. Praying for comfort and grace in the days ahead.
Chris and Vanessa Stanfield
February 4, 2015
Sarah and Mark,
What a remarkable young lady Skye must have been! It is our prayer that God will comfort your hearts today and in the days to come. May you also find comfort and peace in your memories of your precious girl.
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848 Keyser Ave., Natchitoches, LA 71457
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