Orval Farrar Obituary (1940 - 2025) - Crossville, Tennessee

Orval Lee Farrar June 5, 1940 – November 19, 2025 Orval Lee Farrar, 85, departed this world on November 19, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, wisdom, and humility. Born in Elk City, Oklahoma, to William and Audrey DeGarmo Farrar, Orval grew into the kind of man who never met a stranger. Steady and gracious, he left a lasting impression on all who knew him. Orval married the love of his life, Janell, and together they shared nearly 64 years of devotion and partnership. He adored her deeply and never missed an opportunity to spoil her—caring for others was something he extended to everyone around him. Even in his final days, he put others first, always wanting the nurses to be made more comfortable and asking what they needed. A man of simple joys, Orval preferred backroads to interstates. He loved music and was often heard singing and cherished time when he was able to go fishing. His culinary specialties—meatloaf cooked on the grill and giblet gravy—were favorites among family. After watching his father face Alzheimer’s, Orval made it a point to keep his mind sharp, faithfully completing crossword puzzles and learning something new whenever he could. Orval faced a sudden and swift battle with bone cancer. In those final weeks, the compassionate care provided by the nurses at LifeCare and the support of Gentiva Hospice brought comfort to him and his family, for which they are deeply grateful. Orval is survived by his beloved wife, Janell Farrar, with whom he shared nearly 64 beautiful years of marriage; and his children, Rhonda Hudson (Cecil) of Fountain Run, KY; Janis Ebel (Ron) of Crossville, TN; Aaron Farrar (Kathy) of Pampa, TX; and Amy Byrd (Tommy) of Wynne, AR. He was a proud grandfather to 12 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Delbert Farrar (Glendie) of Amarillo, TX. He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Keith Farrar; his brother, Roy Farrar; and his sister, Janita Patten. Orval’s life was defined by kindness, curiosity, and a generous heart. His gentle spirit and the love he poured into others will continue to be felt for generations. Those wishing to honor Orval's life may donate to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at the link below.