William H. "Bill" Farling

William H. 'Bill' Farling died peacefully on December 27, 2024, following his daily visit with his wife, Kathleen. Bill suffered from dementia and the repercussions of a fall in 2022. The warmth, kindness, and gentleness of his personality persisted even as his memory declined; one nurse referred to Bill as 'our Mr. Rogers'.

His 38-year notable career included his roles as testing specialist for U.S. Army Reserve, junior high teacher and counselor, school psychologist, chief school psychologist for the Ohio department of education, member of the first Ohio board of psychology, private practice of counseling psychology, director of the school psychology training at the University of Akron, Ohio, head of the department of educational psychology, and full professor at Miami University of Ohio. He served on many boards and committees, a diplomate member of the American Board of Professional Psychology, and board member of the National Register of Health Service Providers in psychology.

Bill was a leader in the 1969 formation and organization of the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP), served as executive director, and received their lifetime achievement award. He served as managing editor of the International Journal of School Psychology. Bill was the recipient of many professional awards and honors, wrote numerous professional papers and articles, taught classes, and conducted workshops. He was voted Outstanding Professor of 2000 at Webster University (St. Louis) San Diego campus. When Good Housekeeping magazine published their interview of Bill in the mid-seventies, Kathleen kidded he now had their 'seal of approval’ as well.

Bill will be sadly missed by his beloved wife of 53 years, Kathleen (Moore) Farling; sister-in-law, Maureen (Moore) Derchak; brothers-in-law, Terry (Marybeth) Moore, Denny (Suzanne) Moore, and Art McHale; and many dear nieces and nephews and their families.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Patricia Farling McHale; and brother, Bob Farling.

Memorial contributions may be made to the NASP Minority Scholarship Program, 4340 East West Highway, Suite 402, Bethesda, MD 20314.

Kathleen wishes to extend her appreciation to Regency Care.

There will be no funeral services. The family wishes to honor his memory in a private celebration of his life.

The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home- Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield.