Byron Chester Farlow

Byron Chester Farlow went to be with his Lord and Savior Wednesday morning, October 29, 2025. Byron was born March 2, 1932, the son of Frank M. Farlow and Nora Stout Farlow. He was raised on the family farm in Sophia, N.C. where he learned the value of hard work and the importance of faith and family. Byron was a 1950 graduate of Randleman High School. It was there that he met Peggy. Byron and Peggy were married January 17, 1953 at Marlboro Friends Meeting and were married nearly 66 years. Byron was preceded in death by his wife, Peggy Davis Farlow, his parents, brothers Maurice and Bryce Farlow and sisters Hazel Braun and Geraldine Haithcock. He is survived by his daughters Denise Jones and Debbie Surratt, son-in-law Scott Surratt, "daughter" Alicia Yee Perez, grandchildren Lindsey Sommers (Chris), Tyler Surratt, Tara Gainey (Addison), Ben Jones (Lisa), Blair Bresson (Joey), and four awesome great grandchildren, Charlotte and Eliza Gainey, Arlo Jones and Henry Byron Bresson. He is also survived by his brother Michael Farlow, nieces and nephews. Byron was honored to have the love and support of Gary and Elaine Wagoner and Jim and Teresa Lanier, who were always willing to help with projects and chores that he could no longer manage on his own.

Byron loved to work and his hands were evidence of his labors. As a young man, he worked in the local saw mill and later repaired counters for textile mills across the state. He retired from the U.S. Postal Service, where he was the rural carrier for Sophia residents for 24 years. He was a skilled welder, a gifted mechanic, and restored a 1930 Model A Ford that he drove in local parades. He built a go-cart for his young children and another later for his grandchildren. Byron earned his private pilot's license around 1981 and enjoyed taking friends and family on flights over the community. He built his own hydraulic wood splitter and often gave wood to those in need. His favorite hobby following retirement was beekeeping and he shared lots of honey with family and friends. Byron and Peggy enjoyed traveling, especially visiting Alicia in Mexico City in 1976 and their Alaskan Cruise following retirement. After Peggy's death, Byron enjoyed a special trip with his granddaughter, Lindsey, to Colorado.

Byron was a birthright member of Marlboro Friends Meeting and lived out his Quaker faith. He served in many roles at Marlboro, including Clerk of Monthly Meeting, Trustee, Cemetery and Grounds, Quaker Men and as Adult Sunday School teacher. He also served as a volunteer firefighter in Sophia for many years. Byron was a member of the Junior Order of United American Mechanics, Trophy Council #29, in High Point, N.C. He served as counselor at both the local and state levels. The group supports the American Children's Home in Lexington, N.C.

The family thanks all those who cared for Byron in recent years, especially those at Terra Bella Asheboro, who cared for him in his final days.

Memorials honoring Byron's memory may be directed to Marlboro Friends Meeting, 2668 Marlboro Church Rd. Sophia N.C. 27350 or The American Children's Home, PO Box 3844 N.C. Hwy 8, Lexington, N.C. or visit ach-nc.org.

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