Joseph E. Farris

Joseph E. Farris (99) died January 1, 2025 at Serenity House after a 2 year battle with liver cancer. He was born the 8th child of Lebanese immigrants, John and Cuffa Farris, on March 22, 1925 in Pittsburg, KS. He joined the Marines upon graduating from High School and spent 3 years in WWII, 4 years in the reserves serving 13 months during the Korean Conflict. He married Joann Lapp in Rockford, IL on March 25, 1950. They shared the next 74 years together building a wonderful life and family. 

 

He retired from the National Lock Company in 1978 after 30 years. Throughout his life he enjoyed family get togethers in Byron and Farris Family Reunions held all over the US. He loved being outside tending his yard and their vegetable garden, working around the house, and playing any card game. He was a devoted fan of the Chicago Bears and Cubs and taught his sons to be fans too so they could share the pain. 

 

Jospeh was preceded in death by his parents, 4 brothers and 4 sisters and their spouses. 

 

He is survived by his wife Joann; sons William (Sandra), John (Kathleen), Michael (Jeanne), Matthew (Hee Suk) and Jason; grandchildren Samantha Beran, Henry Farris, Nicholas Farris, Joseph Farris, Oliva Farris, Gillian Farris, and Tatianna Salisbury; great-grandchildren Charlie and Quinn Farris, Lauren, Ryan and Kyle Beran and Oscar Farris; and many beloved nieces and nephews. Also survived by his constant companion, his dog Sophie.

 

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Serenity Hospice and Home of Oregon, IL and United Church of Byron, IL so they may continue to serve our communities. 

 

A funeral service will be held at 11:30 AM on Wednesday, January 8, 2025 at the United Church of Byron, 701 W 2nd St, Byron, IL. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 10:00 AM until 11:30 AM at the church.