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Merrill Farnsworth Obituary
Nashville, TN
Nashville artist, writer, therapist, and beloved mother - passed away September 14th, 2017 after battling cancer since her diagnosis in December 2016.
Merrill Ann Farnsworth was born to John Arthur Horn and Betty Jo Horn on December 13th, 1956 in Borger, TX. After a career in Nashville's music industry at Hummingbird Productions, she completed her Masters in Developmental Psychology at Vanderbilt University. After serving many students as a counselor, Merrill started her own private practice as an LPC. Most notably she created Writing Circles, a therapeutic practice that inspired writers of all skill levels to find their voices and discover community through weekly creative writing groups. Merrill is also known for her work as a writer and artist, her published works including Jezebel's Got the Blues and Kissing My Shadow.
She is survived by her parents; her siblings Debbie Hendren, James Horn, and Dwight Horn; and her three children, Jonathan Robert Farnsworth, Evan Elizabeth Farnsworth, and Rebecca Reid Farnsworth. She was deeply loved by her children, family, friends, and artistic community. Merrill inspired all those around her to write honestly, dance frequently, and live life passionately.
A memorial service will be held at 3 o'clock Saturday, September 23rd at Christ Church Cathedral, 900 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203. Visitation will be held one hour prior at the church. A wake is to follow at 2510 Oakland Ave… or more accurately, we are throwing a big party to celebrate a life well lived.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Seattle Music Partners, a non-profit dedicated to bringing free instrumental music education and mentorship to Seattle's youth. Merrill has continuously supported this organization in honor of her daughter, Evan Farnsworth. You can donate at www.seattlemusicpartners.org/donate.html
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Merrill Farnsworth
Sponsored by Neptune Society - Nashville.
Kathryn Stinson
October 12, 2017
I'm so very sorry to hear about Merrill's death. I have nothing but wonderful memories of her talent, her kindness, and her endless creativity.
October 12, 2017
My sincerest condolences to your family.
May the God of all comfort grant you strength and peace during this most difficult time.
PD-GA
Tina Milsap
October 6, 2017
She was a special light to all who knew her. I loved her spirit. Knowing her from High School to College...always so kind. We shared fun times in YOUNG LIFE organization. Prayers to her family.
Barbara Sanders
September 25, 2017
Merrill brought joy, hope and art to my life and to the lives of so many others. Always smiling, sometimes mischievous, warm, exciting and calming, living her life to the fullest and encouraging us all to do the same. Thank you , Merrill, for all you are, all you have been, and all you have done. Maybe you find peace, harmony and joy as you move on.... crazily brave still.
Elizabeth Hummel Bonitz
September 24, 2017
Dearest Evie & Rebecca Reid,
Your wonderful mother invited me to stay in your home as your nanny for two summers in a row. You were 1.5 and then 2.5 years old. I loved sharing those precious weeks with you, when you were learning to walk and talk -- and run!
Tonight, 25 years later, I awoke at 2 AM with an immense curiousity as to what you two have become and are doing in this world. I read with great interest about Evie's GSA/ACLU work from a decade ago. And then Google brought to my attention this notice of your mother's passing. Along with great sadness at this news, I was startled to realize that I have missed celebrating Merrill's life with you at the wake (party) by less than 12 hours.
Why was I awakened with an urge to search for you two in the middle of this night? Perhaps to share with you how grateful I still am for the opportunity to know Merrill -- to watch and learn from her how to mother. I still feel her example, 25 years later, when mothering my own two children.
Although no one will ever replace your mother, I hope you will easily find those who can "stand in" for her when needed, as I was so honored to do when you were small. She provided you a nanny when she couldn't be there with you herself, and I have every confidence other such "stand ins" will continue to be sent your way, offering different facets of her comfort, strength, wisdom, humor, and friendship.
I am so very sorry for your loss. Please pass along my love and deepest condolences to your brother and father, too!
With love,
Elizabeth
Twana
September 22, 2017
Dearest Merrill:
Thank you for sharing your gifts with us, for teaching me to reach inside and discover myself, for your encouragement, you wit, and your easy laughter. I am fortunate to have found you and been able to share in your Writing Circles for so many years. You are irreplaceable, but your circles will remain.
Thank you for everything. I miss you intently.
Julie Kimbrell
September 22, 2017
My deepest condolences to the family and friends! Merrill wasn't just a friend she was a cousin to me through my cousin Bebe. I can't remember when it wasn't Merrill, Bebe and Susan. Although it will be hard without her here with us she will continue to bless us with her treasured memories.
Love and Prayers,
A Garden Grows in Winter, painted with loving thoughts of Merrill in mind.
Doris Wasserman
September 22, 2017
A life well-lived, indeed.
Jenna Longmire
September 22, 2017
My deepest condolences to Merrill's children and family. She has left an amazing legacy and was one of the brightest lights I have ever known personally. Her presence in my life and so many others will be greatly missed. I'm sure she has impacted everyone she has ever met. I am so fortunate to have been a part of her creative community.
Jill Sanders
September 21, 2017
Merrill mentored my group at the Haden Institute Spiritual Direction program. She called forth my most authentic self and gave me permission to be who I am. She received my writing and lifted up images and connections I had not seen. In one short year, she has had a profound impact on my life. I will never forget her---and will give thanks every time I think of her!
Lisa Fenstermacher
September 21, 2017
I will hold Merrill's awesome spirit close to my heart. So thankful to have attended Mercyland Workshop in 2015 where Merrill led the Writer's Circle. My prayers and deepest condolences to Merrill's family and loved ones. I will miss her. Grateful to have met such a beautiful soul.
Angelo Natalie
September 21, 2017
Merrill was always kind & good to me... and an exceptional encourager. Rest in God's presence, dear friend.
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