Donna "Joann" Farnsley

Donna “Joann” Farnsley, 91, a lifelong Shelbyville resident, passed away on Sunday, March 10, 2024, at The  Willows of Shelbyville.

She was born November 26, 1932, in Shelbyville, the daughter of Landy J. and Helen Iva (Strickler) Myer. On August 22, 1954, she married Rev. James Farnsley, and he preceded her in death on December 7, 2009.

Joann is survived by her sons, Jon Farnsley and wife, Barbara, and Mark Farnsley and wife, Carmen;  grandchildren, Michael Andrew Farnsley and wife, Sarah, Brian James Farnsley and wife, Molly, Jonathan Arthur Farnsley, KayAnn Lynn Hardwick (Farnsley) and husband, Ethan; and Caroline Grace Farnsley; and beloved great-grandchildren Miles Andrew Farnsley, Silas Grae Farnsley, Adalia Kate Farnsley, Jack Amell Hardwick, Rose Grace Farnsley, and Jesse Andrew Hardwick.

In addition to Jim, Joann was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Joyce.

Joann and Rev. Farnsley spent decades serving their community in various local churches.

In 1950, Joann graduated from Morristown High School.  She attended Indiana Central College now known as the University of Indianapolis, graduating in 1955.  In 1965, she obtained her Master’s degree in elementary education from Butler University.

Joann taught third grade at Union, Marion and Arlington schools.  She retired in 1993, with 35 years of combined teaching from Coulston Elementary.

Joann was a wonderful cook and would treat family & guests to huge Sunday afternoon and holiday spreads. She loved teaching music lessons, and would still engage in music and ministry to her fellow assisted living residents through the end of her life. Joann would never pass up the opportunity to enjoy White Castle or a Chocolate Malt, and is remembered for her love of redbone coonhounds.

Joann was a member of the Retired Teachers Association.

Visitation will be from 4 to 8 pm, Friday, March 15, 2024, at Freeman Family Funeral Homes and Crematory, 819 S. Harrison St. in Shelbyville.

Funeral services will be at 10 am, Saturday, March 16, 2024, at the funeral home, with Pastor Mike Farnsley officiating.

Interment will be at Hanover Cemetery in Shelby County.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Hope Center Indy, 11850 Brookville Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46239, or to Compassion International through sponsoring a child as Joann and Jim did for many decades.

Online condolences may be shared with Joann’s family at www.freemanfamilyfuneralhomes.com