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Mary Farel Obituary
Mary Elizabeth Farel (Betsy), of Winchester, VA, died Thursday, April 14 and entered into the presence of the Lord.
Betsy was the daughter of Leslie and Margaret Phelps, born on May 3, 1944 in Washington, DC. She spent her early years in Mitchellville, MD before moving to Winchester, VA in the 8th grade. She graduated from James Wood high school and then Richmond Professional Institute. She worked as an interior designer in Washington, DC where she met her soon-to-be husband, Eric. They would be married for 50 years. They settled in Frederick County, VA. Betsy and Eric surrendered their hearts to Christ in 1972. Eric would become a pastor and Betsy would work alongside of him serving wherever needed, at Shenandoah Valley Baptist Church and Shenandoah Valley Christian Academy until Eric's retirement in 2012.
Betsy was deeply loved by her family and friends and is remembered as a kind, godly woman who exhibited the love of Christ in all she did. She is survived by her children, James Farel of Washington, DC; John Farel and his wife Jennifer of Owings Mills MD; Erin Doxtator and her husband Josh of Strasburg, VA and their children Emmet and Eric. She is also survived by her sister Leslie Ann Beach and her husband Charles of Winchester, VA.
She was predeceased by her husband Eric and by her sister Judy Davidson and her husband Charles.
The funeral will be held Tuesday, April 19 at Shenandoah Valley Baptist Church in Stephens City, VA at 11:00 AM. The family will receive friends from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM prior to the service. She will be laid to rest at Lamps United Methodist Church in Mount Williams.
Condolences may be sent to www.colonialfuneralhome.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Mary Farel
Jennifer Byrne
April 19, 2022
I'm so thankful to have known Betsy. She was a beautiful example of living a life for Christ and I loved her. I will always treasure the memories of her and I teaching together in AWANA.
Dana Nutter
April 18, 2022
Thank you for giving to The Lord, I am a life that was changed. You and Eric came into my life in 1972, when I was 7, and my life was enriched beyond measure. You taught me about God's love and showed me love that I had never experienced before, ir since. You both were true examples of Godly Christians with a servant heart. Thank you for
praying with me when I was 12 and have my heart to God. Thank you and Eric for planting that seed... I love you both so much!
Sheila Southworth
April 17, 2022
Betsy and her family were like family to us. As neighbors, they were so kind and I will miss her but I know she is at peace with her creator and I'll bet she is singing with the angels and praising her Lord with gladness! God bless those she left behind.✝
With love from the Bejjani family
Carol Vermaas Bejjani
April 16, 2022
Charm Class
It wasn't the class we loved, it was spending that time with you, a charming woman who knew how to make us feel special and accepted.
Hospitality
It was always a special treat to be invited to your home for a tour of the 'forest' or sledding with Eric, then come inside your warm cozy home for hot cocoa, good food, your warm smile, and a listening ear.
Faithful to the end
You took care of Eric in his last years of dementia. I know this was not an easy role for you but you stayed by his side gracefully.
You are loved
And you will be missed!
We don't always know we are learning, but watching and experiencing you do life, has been a precious gift
Janet Low
April 16, 2022
Betsy was the most Godly woman I knew. She had the kindest heart and will be greatly missed.
Bill Akers
April 16, 2022
Best was a great servant of God and was a great role model for all who had the pleasure to meet her. Enjoy your reunion with Pastor and until we meet again we will miss you greatly.
Tami Olling
April 15, 2022
We love the Farel family. Pastor Farel and Betsy really encouraged our family over the years. Betsy always gave us warm smile and kind words whenever we’d see her. Such a treasure and such a godly lady! Sure sorry for your loss. She will be greatly missed. We shall see her again, praise the Lord. Praying for the family.❤
Pat Stonestreet
April 15, 2022
Betsy was a perfect pastor's wife. Her love for her Lord showed in all she did. It was a blessing to know her and work with her years ago. Our love to James, John and Erin. May God surround you with His love and comfort.
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Colonial Funeral Home of Leesburg201 Edwards Ferry Road NE, Leesburg, VA 20176
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