Sean is preceded in death by his grandmother, Nettie Hoard; his grandparents, John and Mary Farris; and his great-grandparents, Edwin and Lucille Halbert, for whom he was proudly named.
Affectionately known as "Smiley Sean," Sean brought joy to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His infectious smile, kind heart, and gentle spirit made a lasting impression on family, friends, and all who crossed his path.
He is survived by his loving mother and best friend, Theresa Farris; his brother, Stephen Farris; his father, Steve Farris; his uncles, Larry Hoard (Malissa) and Michael Hoard (Teri); great uncle Billy (Linda) Hoard; and his cousins, Meagan (Tanner), Kalah, Josie, Elizabeth, Michael, and baby Holloway, who is expected to arrive soon, Jimmy Hoard and Shannon Kee. Sean also leaves behind many extended family members and dear friends who will cherish his memory.
Sean graduated from Avon Lenox High School in 2015. He also attended Bartlett High School and Dexter Middle School. As a baby he was blessed at Leawood Baptist Church. Since 2010 he was an active and faithful member of Hope Church and their special needs ministry Hope 4 Macky and Friends. He also attended VBS and other activities at Grace Evangelical Church, Highland Church of Christ, and St. Patrick’s Presbyterian Church. Throughout his life he was blessed to find friendship, encouragement, and community through his faith.
Sean had a contagious enthusiasm for life and enjoyed many of his favorite things. He was a devoted fan of the Memphis Tigers and loved superheroes, especially Batman and Superman. He could often be found swimming with family and friends or watching beloved childhood favorites such as Blue's Clues, Little Bear, and the classic Nickelodeon cartoons of the 1990s. Some of his happiest memories were made during family trips to Disney World and SeaWorld, and he looked forward each year to attending Joy Prom and Tim Tebow's Night to Shine, where he celebrated alongside treasured friends.
Sean especially loved spending time with his family and adored his “two stupid dogs” Lily and Foxy. He loved being in the water and could truly "swim like a fish," bringing smiles to those who watched him enjoy one of his greatest passions. More than anything, Sean's joyful spirit, warm smile, and unconditional love for others will be remembered by everyone whose lives he touched.
Theresa and Stephen would like to thank their Hope Church family for the unwavering love, visits, prayers and support given during Sean’s illness. Memorial contributions in Sean’s memory would be most welcomed at Hope Church’s Hope 4 Macky and Friends.
Sean didn’t have a lot of words, but his joy was infectious and although Sean's time on earth was far too short, the love he shared and the happiness he brought to others will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him forever.
Family will receive friends from 11:00am to 2:00pm on Thursday, July 16 at Hope Church (South Hall - Entrance 2) 8500 Walnut Grove Rd, Memphis, TN. A service will follow at 2:00pm and interment will be at Memphis Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens 3700 N. Germantown Rd, Bartlett, TN.
