April 6, 1932 – December 15, 2020
Calvin Finus Farris passed (of natural causes) and began his new journey on December 15, 2020, at the age of 88. Calvin was born in Tokio, Texas, April 6, 1932, the son of Barney and Pansy Farris. He married the only love of his life, Wanda Jean (Jeanie) Berry in Brownfield, Texas on January 6, 1953.
He attended Brownfield High School, graduating in 1950, as Class President. After school, Calvin worked for his father at Keystone-Farris Propane in Levelland and Brownfield. Following that, he spent his entire career of 38 years with Amerada Hess Petroleum and Hess Corporation, primarily in Seminole. He took his work very seriously. Those who worked with, for or even around him, will all nod that he was a friend to everyone, yet a strong leader and mentor, and was completely unselfish. He loved his work and his work family. His most fond memory of his career was his temporary assignment to Abu Dhabi, to establish a new Warehouse operation. He flew back on the Concorde. He was also extremely proud of having managed all the Materials requirements to build the Seminole Gas Plant. In recognition of his service and skills in the Petroleum industry, he was awarded both Oil Support Person and Retired Oil Person at the local Oil-Ag Appreciation Day ceremonies. Calvin was a member of the Seminole Volunteer Fire Department, where he served 19 years. He and the other members built the Department into what it ultimately is today. He also was a member of Seminole Masonic Lodge No 957. As a member of South Seminole Baptist Church, he never, ever missed a tithe. He served his country for two years in the Army, at Fort Hood, where their first child was born.
After retirement in 1994, Calvin went back to his passion of raising and riding horses, as well as raising other animals. His primary focus in life was spending time with family, and teaching his grandchildren and great-grandchildren (as well as all their friends) to ride. He trail rode horses many years with a local group of friends, and rode horseback to the top of Guadalupe Peak in his 70s. He was a member of the Seminole Drifters Riding Club, where he helped sponsor and coordinate local events. Local playdays are some of the most cherished memories for his grandchildren. He also logged literally thousands of hours helping his children and grandchildren with local Livestock Shows and competitions for over three decades. He also taught all these children the values of life, simply by being himself.
Calvin was a man’s man, complete with a huge, soft heart and immense integrity. He helped hundreds of Seminole citizens over the years in countless ways. He enjoyed helping others. Calvin Farris was the definition of a solid citizen and individual. He was a dedicated family leader and the best father and Papa imaginable. All his children and grandchildren will always remember his parting words in every conversation, “Sure do love you and I sure am proud of you!”
Calvin is preceded in death by his father, Barney Cleo Farris, his mother, Pansy Bonita Farris, and one brother, Barney Eugene Farris. He is survived by one sister, Roma and husband Max Miller of Brownfield, Texas; his loving wife of 67 years, Wanda Jean (Jeanie) Farris of Seminole; three daughters, Vickie and husband Phil Aubry of Seminole, Cindy and husband Charles Hanley of Weatherford, Texas, and Gina Sutter of Keller, Texas; one son, Dan Farris of Tyler, Texas, 11 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.
Calvin is sitting tall in the saddle now, with his friend Dale and brother Gene. To be absent from the body, is to be present with the Lord.
The family will hold memorial services at a later date, and sends thanks to all those who have expressed their sympathy and love. All services are under the direction of Boyer Funeral Home of Seminole.
