OBITUARY
Don Farmer
September 27, 1938 – March 31, 2021
Don Farmer September 27, 1938 – March 31, 2021
As a little boy, Don Farmer wanted to be foreign correspondent. He began his career as a teenager, reporting for his hometown newspaper in suburban St. Louis, Missouri. At the end of his career, he had been a successful newspaper and radio reporter, a non-fiction author and novelist, national and local TV anchorman, network television political reporter and war correspondent and, of course, a foreign correspondent - trench coat and all.
Don graduated with a journalism degree from the University of Missouri in Columbia. He was completing his master’s degree when he was offered a plum job with the NBC News election unit in Philadelphia. His advanced degree was unfinished, but his journalism career was well underway.
In 1965, ABC News hired Don. “It was a dream come true. I was based in New York, a network correspondent at age 26, one of the youngest ever hired.”
On his fifth day, ABC sent him to Alabama to cover civil rights demonstrations. That began his coverage of the historic movement and assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Don’s next assignment was to the Midwest and ABC’s Chicago Bureau where his coverage included the violent anti-war riots at the 1968 Democratic National Convention.
Given Don’s passion for journalism, it’s fitting that he met his wife of 49 years, Chris Curle in a TV newsroom. Chris was a reporter at the ABC station in Houston, Texas. Don was there as ABC’s southern Bureau Chief based in Atlanta. Their first date followed their separate coverage of civil unrest involving the Houston school district. “Hey, Chris, what are you doing after the riot?” Best pickup line ever.
They married two years later and moved to London, where Don was a key correspondent in ABC’s primary European bureau. They also lived for several years in Germany, where Don was Bureau Chief and international correspondent. “I was always going where people were fleeing.”
Then ABC moved Don to Washington DC to cover the US Congress, first the House of Representatives and then the Senate. Chris anchored at the local ABC station.
When Ted Turner created CNN in 1980, he hired Don and Chris to be among its pioneer anchors. While there, they anchored a week of historic live news programming from Cuba.
Don and Chris ended their TV news careers after ten years anchoring at WSB-TV in Atlanta. While there, Don continued reporting internationally with coverage of the onset of the first Iraq War, the Fall of the Berlin Wall, the historic Reagan-Gorbachev summit in Reykjavik and unrest in Central America.
For decades, Don and Chris vacationed on Marco Island in Southwest Florida. They retired there in 1997 but enjoyed part-time work as local newspaper columnists and radio hosts. Don also wrote two novels, murder-thrillers set in the TV news business.
In all, Don covered disasters, politics, wars and peace talks, heroes and villains in eighty-one countries on six continents: throughout North America, Europe, the Middle East, Latin America and Asia, including the Vietnam War.
Don interviewed thousands of people, some of the best in the world and some of the worst, in some of the best places on the planet and some of the most dangerous. Most memorable to him were Dr. King, Jr. and the Beatles – all four of them.
Don was in the US Army Reserves for six years in the 1960s. Due to his writing and typing skills, his duties were mostly clerical.
He loved baseball - the Cardinals as a kid and the Braves in Atlanta.
Don passed away at Bentley Village in Naples, Florida and will be buried in the Marco Island Cemetery.
He is survived by his wife, Chris Curle; his daughter, Laurie, her husband Hal Thannisch and sons Cole and Cade; his son, Justin and wife Allison and children Sarah Kate, James and Wallace; his sister, Judy and her family.
Please consider donations to Avow Hospice of Naples or CurePSP. www.hodgesjosberger.com ~ www.donfarmer.com ~ chris@chriscurle.com
DONATIONS
- AVOW Hospice of Naples
- CurePSP
Services
Services will be held at a later date.
Memories
Don Farmer
have a memory or condolence to add?
ADD A MEMORYMary Dodd
April 9, 2021
Loved seeing him on the news. My love and sympathies to his family
Mike McIntyre
April 9, 2021
I am sorry to read about the passing of Don. I got to know him in 1976 when he traveled with us aboard the “Minnesota Fritz” covering Walter Mondale’s VP campaign. There were many great writers and TV reporters traveling with us in that campaign. People like Mary McGrory Bill Plante, Robert Hager, Jules Whitecover, David Broder from time to time and others.
Don was well respected and a pleasure to get to know back in the day. He covered the first ever VP debate when Mondale won the night against Bob Dole in Houston. As good a reporter as he was, I am sure he was an even better husband and father. My prayers and thoughts are with you all.
Steve Williams
April 2, 2021
Don and Chris were great anchors at WSB-TV back in the day. I am saddened to hear of his passing and offer my condolences and prayers to Chris, Justin, and the entire Farmer family. Justin IMHO does a great job in carrying on his folks' legacy. May His holy spirit comfort the Farmer family and may Don rest in His eternal peace.
Carol Reynolds
April 2, 2021
I remember fondly Don snd Chris visiting The Foxtale Book Shoppe in Woodstock, Ga. for a book signing. DEADLY NEWS was a big hit! It was my privilege as a member of the Staff to meet and chat with the couple. Thank you, Don, for sharing your remarkable gifts with the World.
Carole Grant
April 2, 2021
Our family's deepest condolences to the Farmer family. It was a joy to watch your father, Don, anchor the news. We just realized that Don Farmer, who we loved; is the father of our absolutely favorite Justin Farmer. (We love watching Justin, and Jovida.) Thank you Justin, for sharing your father Don, with us. Now that we know Justin, is Don's son, we love Justin even more!
Hurl Taylor
April 1, 2021
I was born exactly one week before Don and I retired. from the U.S. Army in 1980 and made Atlanta my home. I only watched WSB , not only to see Monica's hair styles but also see the dashing warm co anchor. I think I met him once at a public event and told him how much I enjoyed his reporting style.
When Justin appeared many years, later, I rejoiced because I knew that I had another round of great news reporting! Well Don, I know that you have already interviewed Hammering Hank for your heavenly broadcasts from your fluffy winged studio. Continue your legendary work and see what you can do for the Braves this year? They had the one big year in 1995 or two years before you went south to the citrus state. Atlanta misses you! Hurl Taylor
Anne and John Janas
April 1, 2021
John and I are grateful for the many decades of friendship that we have shared with Don and Chris along with our friends Becky Chase and Dick Williams. So many rich memories of trips to Santa Fe, rafting in the Grand Canyon, and more. Wonderful adventures. Don was an outstanding friend - caring, attentive, engaged - and great fun to be with. And what a perfect match with dear Chris.
Chris, we send you and your family our deepest sympathies and love. We hope that the many years of beautiful memories during good times with Don will comfort you in the sad days ahead.
Love, Anne and John
Doug Scales
April 1, 2021
As a tiny kid I remember my family always watched "the news" every single night! As I grew up I also became a news viewer and it has been WSB from day one!! I could practically name every anchor and reporter since 1970!! Don was one of the greats!!! His pairing with both Chris and the legend Monica Kauffman made for absolute brilliance!!! When his son Justin became an anchor at WSB , I knew instantly who his Dad was!! And like his Dad , he has a sense of humor and likes to banter with his partner Jovita Moore. These people are like family to me and I NEED to spend time with them everyday and hear their friendly reassuring voices. Thank you Don Farmer for being part of my family!!
All my love and condolences to Justin, Chris and the entire Farmer and WSB families!! God bless you all! I am so sorry.💛🙏
Anne Lummus
April 1, 2021
My deepest condolences to Chris and all Don’s family. I remember Don and Chris at channel 2 in Atlanta, and they were my favorites. And now Justin is my favorite. And from the beginning, I said Justin looked just like his daddy, which made him even more fun to watch.
Don leaves a wonderful legacy of news reporting. And I am very thankful to have been in Atlanta to watch his career.
I will be keeping all the Farmer family in my prayers, and please know I share in their grief.
My most sincer sympathies,
Anne Lummus
Beverly Molander
April 1, 2021
Thanks to Don for his contribution to WSB/Atlanta television news. He and Chris were a fixture in Atlanta for many, many years. Condolences to Chris, Justin, and the rest of the family.
Karyn Reed
April 1, 2021
I watched Don Farmer and Chris Curls everyday when I first moved to Georgia over 30 years ago. I didn't know they were married. When Justin came to WSB in Atlanta, I immediately knew he was Son's son. Please accept my condolences and God Bless your family.
Melissa Shadow
April 1, 2021
Justin and family you are in our prayers . I had just moved here to ga when don was just starting to air ion wsb-tv and from day one I had watch him until he has decide to retire and still continue to watch the same news with you Jason and the other wsbtv newcast people .I prefer watching you all and will continue to watch
I'm sorry for your lost. Prayers for all family members. May God Bless you and all the family in this day and time.
Tahnee Whatley
April 1, 2021
You know you were born and raised in Atlanta when you refer to WSB as channel 2....I remember watching he and Chris.
I’m so sorry to hear of Don’s passing.
My thoughts and prayers for the family.
Carrie Peavy
April 1, 2021
I grew up in Atlanta, and as a little girl I remember my mom and grandmother being planted in front of the TV everyday. If Don said it it had to be true. I pray that his family finds comfort in all of the respect people had for him. May he rest in peace.
Hilda Goins
April 1, 2021
My family and I always watched Don and Chris as Anchors of the evening news, WSB TV, Atlanta. My husband and I met Don at the Atlanta Airport many years ago when the Braves were coming in from one of their play-off wins. As fans, we were a part of a group of fans greeting them when they returned. Don and I had a great conversation about the Braves on the escalator ride up to where we could stand and watch the Braves as they disembarked their flight and did a walk-through the terminal in front of their fans. Don was there to cover their return. He was a very personable man and his professionalism and kindness showed. Rest in peace Don Farmer. Our heartfelt condolenses to his family!
ANTONIO TIGUE
April 1, 2021
My thoughts and prayers are with the family doing this difficult time.
My condolences
You will forever be in the memories of many Atlantans.
Rest in Heaven Mr. Farmer
Ray Beaty
April 1, 2021
Wow, Where do you start with Don Farmer! If your from Atlanta, he is a part of our lives and a friendly face on the news for many years! Don and news go hand in hand around here. Happy when his son followed in his footsteps and Justin is a chip off the old block as the expression goes! I know his dad and mom are proud.
Rest well Don and we keep your family in our thoughts.
Donna McDonald
April 1, 2021
Don was an icon in Atlanta. Enjoyed he and Chris for many years, and now enjoying his son Justin. Condolences to family in your great loss. Blessings to you.
Deborah Druce
April 1, 2021
So sorry to hear of his passing. I remember watching him on Channel 2. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. He will never be forgotten.
Joe Hite
April 1, 2021
Rest In Peace, Don.... thank you for all your reporting throughout the years.... you were awesome on WSB CHANNEL 2...... GOD BLESS you, Chris & Justin!!!!♥️♥️♥️🙏🙏🙏🙏
Dianne Hanley
April 1, 2021
Always loved watching Don on WSB he spoke in a soft easygoing voice. Did not know of his past but loved reading about him.
Condolences to Chris and family.
Laurann Cook
April 1, 2021
Remember Don Farmer well Atlanta News. So sorry for the loss of a great news Anchor. Prayer for the Farmer Family.
Patti White
April 1, 2021
Used to watch Don on WSB TV and always liked him as an anchor. He was part of Atlanta news. Did not realize what an extensive background he had. Very accomplished . So sad to hear of his passing. Condolences to his family.
Debbie Andrews
April 1, 2021
I remember Don so well. I use to listen and watch him for so many years on WSB TV. I am so very sorry for your loss.
Pat Murphy
April 1, 2021
I would like to offer my sincere condolences to Chris and the entire Farmer family. Don was a giant in the TV industry and loved by so many people. I met Don several times when his son Justin worked as my weekend sports anchor in West Palm Beach. He was a wonderful man and will be greatly will missed by all those who were fortunate enough to know him. My thoughts & prayers to everyone he touched during this difficult time.
Gary Williams
April 1, 2021
I first got to know Don & Chris when they were with CNN. They gave me the opportunity to handle their life insurance. Our friendship grew & I have always held them in the highest respect. My condolences to Chris & the family. Gary & Susan Williams
Warren Belmar
April 1, 2021
My sincerest condolences to Chris and the entire Farmer family. Don will be missed by all who were fortunate enough to have known him. May all the happy memories we have, whether from long ago or of recent vintage, be a constant source of comfort during these difficult days and in the years to come.
Carl Ward
April 1, 2021
I first met Don in Philadelphia at WRCV-TV. I was a copyboy, working while attending college and he was a reporter. I worked for him while he was in charge of 1968 election coverage for a section of the middle Atlantic for the newly formed Network Election Service.
At WSB-TV we won an Emmy together for a show that he promoted and one that I produced. He was quite the character.
He could be a bit outrageous at times, but he was a really wonderful raconteur.
He was a credit to the TV News business.
Helen Casey Glover
April 1, 2021
Don was a huge help to me as a young journalist close to 30 years ago. He was the one I would go to with my stupid questions and he always had an answer! I adored Don and Chris and my condolences go out to Chris, Justin and the family.
Don was a correspondent’s correspondent.
RIP dear one.