Charles Todd Farish Jr.

Mr. Farish, 87, passed away Sunday, March 13, 2016 at Sardis Oaks Rehabilitation Center in Charlotte. Born April 2, 1928 in Glen Allen, VA, he was the son of the late Charles Todd Farish, Sr. and Lena Thompson Farish. Following graduation from Glen Allen High School, Shorty began working for the C&P Telephone Co. in Richmond, VA. His career was briefly interrupted during the Korean War as he served in the US Marine Corps where he was primarily stationed at Parris Island, SC. Following faithful service to his country, he returned to C&P Telephone from which he retired after 45 years.

For most of his life, Shorty was a member of Hatcher Memorial Baptist Church of Richmond where he served in many capacities including deacon as well as singing in the church choir. For several years, he was a member of North Run Baptist Church in Richmond, serving in those same capacities, until returning to Hatcher in the early 90s. He deeply loved his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ and enjoyed reading the Bible and praying. He married his adoring wife, the former Vivian Smith, on September 29, 1951. Shorty loved to laugh and was widely known for his keen sense of humor. He would frequently entertain his friends with amusing stories and hilarious jokes. An avid sports enthusiast, Shorty enjoyed following the Va. Tech sports teams. He spent many Fall afternoons watching the Va. Tech football team in Lane Stadium. He was also a loyal fan of the Atlanta Braves and the Washington Redskins.

He is survived by his wife, Vivian Smith Farish; one son, Paul (Dale) of Charlotte, four beloved grandchildren, Caroline Pickens (Ryan), Anna Farish, Ellie Farish and Emmie Farish, all of Charlotte; and one great-grandson, Bowman Pickens. He was preceded in death by his sister, Mary Jane Patch of Glen Allen. A service to celebrate Shorty’s life will be held at 12:00 p.m. Saturday, March 19 at St. Giles Presbyterian Church, 2027 Emerywood Drive in Charlotte. The family will receive friends following the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Hatcher Memorial Baptist Music Fund (2300 Dumbarton Road, Henrico VA 23228).