Beverly Jayne Farrer

Beverly Jayne Farrer, lovingly known as Bev, passed away on June 13, 2026 at the age of 81, surrounded by her husband and children. While her family mourns her loss, they find comfort in celebrating a life defined by family, creativity, quiet strength, curiosity, and kindness.

Bev was born on May 6, 1945, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to George and Margaret Greey. As a young girl, her family moved to Ann Arbor, Michigan, where she grew up and graduated from Ann Arbor Senior High School in 1963. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Design from the University of Michigan in 1967, beginning a lifelong journey as an artist, educator, and creative spirit.

Bev began her career as an art teacher and substitute teacher, where she met the love of her life, James Farrer. They were married on August 25, 1969, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, beginning a partnership that would span more than 56 years. After welcoming their first two children, Brian and Lori, the family relocated to Phoenix, Arizona, in May 1973, where Patrick and Stacey were later born.

Throughout her life, Bev pursued work that reflected both her passion for art and learning. She painted decorative pottery bells, operated an after-school childcare program, and ultimately found her calling with the Phoenix Public Library system, where she served as a Library Assistant for twenty years before retiring in 2007. She brought the children's library to life through imaginative story times, handcrafted displays, puppet stages, and performances that inspired countless young readers.

An accomplished artist and nature lover, Bev was a proud member of the Arizona Watercolor Association and the Desert Botanical Garden. She found joy in sketching and watercolor painting, wandering the Garden, reading, British detective series, reality television—especially The Amazing Race and Survivor—Scrabble, jigsaw puzzles, and following current events. If you knew Bev well, you also knew she never shied away from a spirited conversation about them.

Travel was one of Bev's greatest joys. Together, she and Jim explored Hawaii, Alaska, England, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, France, and many other beautiful destinations. In retirement, they found special happiness at their second home in Flagstaff. Many of their favorite days were together on the back patio watching hummingbirds, chipmunks, and the other forest visitors that regularly stopped by.

Those who knew Bev will remember her as thoughtful, intelligent, compassionate, spirited, and funny. She possessed a remarkable work ethic, a creative spirit, and a deep appreciation for beauty in art and nature. Bev wasn't one to express herself with many words, but those who knew her best never questioned how deeply she cared. She showed her love through her steady presence, thoughtful advice, acts of kindness, and an unwavering willingness to help whenever she was needed. Whether for her children, grandchildren, extended family, or friends, Bev could always be counted on.

Bev is survived by her beloved husband, James Farrer; her children, Brian Farrer, Lori Ines, Patrick Farrer, and Stacey Jones; her sister, Catherine Foree; her brother, Russell Greey; her grandchildren, Adam Farrer, Brandon Farrer, Kaitlyn Ines, Camden Ines, Aiden Ines, Colin Farrer, and Jack Farrer; and six cherished nieces and nephews.

A memorial service celebrating Bev's life will be held on Saturday, October 10 at 10:00 a.m. at Shadow Mountain Mortuary, 2350 E. Greenway Road, Phoenix, Arizona.

In keeping with Bev's vibrant spirit and love of color, guests are encouraged to wear bright, cheerful attire rather than traditional black. She would have much preferred a room filled with color, conversation, laughter, and smiling faces than one of quiet sorrow.

Following the memorial service, those who wish to continue celebrating Bev's life are warmly invited to join the family for an open house to share stories, memories, and laughter in her honor.