Ellen McFarlane

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Ellen Vernell Nunnally McFarlane on Wednesday, Oct. 9, 2024, at the age of 75.  Mrs. McFarlane was born on March 14, 1949, in Richmond, VA, the only child born to the late James Roy and Virginia Mae Browning Nunnally.  She was a remarkable woman known for her grace, integrity, and unwavering love.  As a devoted wife to Kenneth, who served ten years in the United States Air Force, Vernell traveled the world, embracing new cultures and experiences while supporting her husband's service.  Their enduring love, which began in childhood as neighbors with sweet, nighttime waves and kisses, flourished through each adventure they shared.  A dedicated mother and friend, Vernell touched countless lives with her kindness and generosity, always lifting others up with her spirit.  In her latter years, Vernell embraced the charm of small-town living.  She cherished evenings spent at the Blackmon Amphitheater, where she delighted in listening to beach music and sharing laughter with friends and acquaintances.  Her love for her Mayberry community was evident in her daily life.  She is survived by her husband of 56 years, Kenneth Eugene McFarlane, Jr.; four sons and two daughters-in-law, Kenneth Eugene McFarlane, III and Elizabeth Ann McFarlane, Brian James McFarlane, Matthew Scott McFarlane, Christopher Ryan McFarlane, and Theresa Dean McFarlane; seven grandchildren, Brittany Lynn McFarlane, Abigail Dawn McFarlane, James Thomas McFarlane, Jonathan Tyler Gammon, Jacob Eugene McFarlane, Megan Elizabeth McFarlane, and Dakobe Michael McFarlane; two great-grandchildren, Aurora Sky Kerns and Jonathan Tyler Gammon, Jr.; her lifelong friend, Kay Payne and her husband, Randy; and her cherished friends, Brooks and Jennifer Lusk and their children, Savannah, Christian, and Micah.  In addition to her parents, Mrs. McFarlane was preceded in death by a son, Jeffery Keith McFarlane; and a grandson, Jeffery Keith McFarlane, Jr.  A service of worship and celebration of Vernell's life was held on Monday, Oct. 14, at 2 p.m. at Moody Funeral Home Chapel in Mount Airy, and the Rev. Robbie Vance officiated.  Burial followed in the Haynes Family Cemetery in Fancy Gap, VA.  The family received friends on Monday, Oct. 14, from 12:30 until 2 p.m. at the funeral home.  Flowers will be accepted, or memorial contributions may be made to the Friends Feeding Friends Ministry at First Baptist Church, 714 North Main Street, Mount Airy, NC  27030.  Online condolences may be made at www.moodyfuneralservices.com.