Irma H. Farthing

Born in Nashville, Tennessee, Irma lived a remarkable life marked by dedication, elegance, faith, and service. She devoted more than 65 years as an educator with Indianapolis Public Schools, profoundly impacting generations of students through her commitment to learning and excellence. She was a trailblazer in establishing the Groups Program at Indiana University.

Irma earned her Bachelor of Arts from Tennessee State University and her Master’s degree from Indiana University. She was a proud Diamond Soror of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, embodying a lifetime of scholarship, leadership, and community service.

A woman of deep faith and active community involvement, Irma was a devoted member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church, where she faithfully served and participated throughout her life. During her life, she also served as a member of the Garden Club, the Kolony Club, and Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated, and The Tennessee State University Alumni Association reflecting her lifelong commitment to civic engagement, culture, and community uplift.

She was known for her love of fashion and shopping, especially high heels and handbags, and she greatly enjoyed good food and dining. Her sense of style, warmth, and joy for life were evident to all who knew her.

Irma was preceded in death by her parents, John E. Howlett Sr. and Elinor B. Howlett, and her beloved husband, Rollie Farthing, with whom she shared 55 years of marriage.

She is survived by her son, Rollie Farthing; her daughter-in-law, Kennette Farthing; her cherished grandchildren: Rachel Farthing, Rollie Farthing, and Raven Farthing; her nephews: John E. Howlett III and his wife, Gloria Howlett, and John E. Howlett IV and his wife, Sarah Howlett; her nieces: Deborah Anderson, Koya Anderson, and Khalia Taylor; as well as a loving extended family, along with a wide circle of former students, colleagues, church family, sorority sisters, and friends who will forever honor her legacy.

Irma Howlett Farthing will be remembered as an extraordinary educator, a woman of grace and strength, and a centenarian whose life was beautifully lived.

A visitation will be held on December 27, 2025, from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, located at 3500 Graceland Ave, Indianapolis, Indiana, 46208.

Following the visitation, a Celebration of Life will take place at the same location, beginning at 12:30 pm.