John William Farley

Kernersville - Mr. John William Farley, 97, peacefully passed away at his home surrounded by his family on Saturday, April 22, 2017. John was born on February 5, 1920 in New York City, NY to Edward A. and Laura Burns Farley.

A WWII Veteran, he began travelling the world at the age of 18 as the youngest licensed Purser in the US Merchant Marines, and later as a Purser with the Pacific Overseas Airlines. From June 1943 to May 1944, he was an instructor in the Department of Shipping Economics at Kings Point Merchant Marine Academy in New York. A graduate of both Syracuse University and SUNY Albany he pursued a career in public education beginning with Locust Valley and then Black River school districts. The remainder of his teaching career was spent with the Guilderland School District in both the high school and middle school as a Social Studies Teacher. Admired and respected by his many colleagues, John was elected President of the Teachers Union during his tenure.

Always a superb storyteller, John entertained all in his company with tales of his amazing adventures while serving his country. His penchant for travelling did not end with the war. After starting a family, he continued to explore the world and share his passions with his wife and two daughters. An avid reader and historian, he could weave a tale as interesting and informative as any professional writer. His devotion to his family and faith were unrivaled. As the patriarch of the Farley family, he was looked to for guidance and was always there to provide his love and support.

In addition to his parents and two infant sisters, John was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 64 years, Mildred Farley; four brothers, Albert, Paul, Richard and Robert, and nephew Peter Farley.

Surviving are his daughters, Laura R.Farley Belcastro, and Patricia K. Sprague and husband Ed; five grandchildren, Kayla Sprague Parsley, Alyssa Sprague, James Belcastro, Ashley Belcastro and Alexa Belcastro; two great grandchildren, Mason Parsley and Raelyn Kelley; a brother, Senator Hugh T. Farley, and 25 nieces and nephews and their families.

A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, May 6, 2017 at Saint Kateri Tekakwitha Church, Schenectady NY.
 
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice & Palliative Care, 101 Hospice Lane, Winston-Salem, NC  27103.

Hayworth-Miller Kernersville Chapel is assisting the family.