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Stephen Eugene Farner

Stephen Eugene Farner

Stephen Eugene Farner, treasured husband, father, brother, and Papaw, passed away suddenly at his residence in Scenic Hills Sunday morning, October 15. A member of Red Hill United Methodist Church, Steve was a devout Christian who was proud to profess Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. He also was an avid West Virginia University fan, and he spent his final earthly day watching his beloved Mountaineers notch a come-from-behind victory over Texas Tech with his wife of 24 years and soulmate, Judy, and their dear friends.

Born December 17, 1949, in Sutton, West Virginia, Steve was the son of Kenneth Eugene Farner and Eloise Robinson Farner. He was a graduate of Braxton County High School, Glenville State College, and West Virginia University.

Steve was a tireless worker. He dedicated 45 years of his life to education as a teacher and coach, two with Braxton County Schools, three at Parkersburg Catholic High School, and 40 in Wood County Schools. Most recently, he taught drivers’ education at Parkersburg South High School; he retired from that position at the end of the 2016-2017 school year. He also owned Scenic Hills Driving School and enjoyed continuing his work with students through private driving lessons.

Steve adored his wife, Judy, with whom he created innumerable happy memories and from whom he was inseparable. Together they doted on their canine companion, Dazzle. He also was immensely proud of his daughter, Jess, who he nicknamed Dukes, but nothing brought him greater joy than his grandchildren, Bronson and Frances; they were the lights of his life, and he surely blessed and enriched theirs. No matter the obligations and responsibilities he had, Steve always made “bud time” for Bronson and cherished the time they spent together.

Steve took care of the people around him, in big ways and in small ways. He had a quick wit, a tireless sense of humor and an infectious smile. Autumn weekend after autumn weekend, he drove the Country Roads to Morgantown; and on this autumn weekend, his Heavenly Father called him home. Steve is greatly loved and will be deeply missed.

In addition to Judy, Jessica (Mitch) Linville, Bronson, and Frances, Steve is survived and mourned by his sisters, Suzanne (Greg) Nettles and Christie (Christopher) Wines; and his mother-in-law, Mary Shears; sister-in-law, Terrie (Bob) Kiley; brothers-in-law, Greg (Debbie) Shears and Bill Shears; well as nephews, nieces, neighbors, church family, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Terri; and his father-in-law, Allen Shears.

Services will be held Wednesday, Oct. 18, at 1 p.m. at Red Hill United Methodist Church with the Reverend Mary Zimmer officiating. Visitors wishing to pay their respects may call at Leavitt Funeral Home Tuesday, Oct. 17, from 4 to 8 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Red Hill United Methodist Church youth group in honor of Steve.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.leavittfuneralhome.com