Charles J. Farris

Charles J. Farris, 97, of Collinsville, IL, passed away on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at Labella Nursing Home in Edwardsville, IL.

He was born on September 7, 1928, in Success, AR, to Charles W. and Ola P. (nee Stevens) Farris.

Charles had a gift for finding joy in the simple things in life. He loved to cast a line and spend hours fishing, finding peace and patience in the water’s quiet rhythm. In his workshop, he could tinker with just about any machine, always eager to figure out how it worked and how to make it better. He took great pride in caring for his lawn—mowing a perfectly even yard faster than anyone else, yet with meticulous precision. And every so often, he enjoyed the thrill of playing the slot machines, savoring the fun of chance.

Those who knew Charles knew him as the nicest man you could ever meet, someone who would truly give you the shirt off his back without a second thought. Above all else, Charles cherished his role as a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His family was his greatest pride, his deepest joy, and the center of his world.

His legacy will live on in the hearts of his family and friends who will miss him dearly.

He is preceded in death by his loving wife, Orpha (nee Bigham) Farris; parents, Charles and Ola Farris; children, Brenda Farris, Donald (Sherri) Farris; son-in-law, James Brittain; siblings, Carl “Caleb” Farris, Mary (Buddy) Callian, Bonnie (Bill) Lowe, Nora Gerten, Connie (Tom) Burcham, Thomas (Alice) Farris.

Charles is survived by his children, Linda McMillion, Shirley Brittain, Arcelia (Jerry) Ramsey, Robert “Bobby” Farris, Cindy (Jerry) Farris, Tammy Farris, Charlene (Charles) Adair; sisters, Loretta (Joe) Blaylock, Kathy (Ray) Ostringer; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and many loving friends.

Visitation: Tuesday, August 19, 2025, 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, at Kassly-Meridith Funeral Home, Collinsville, IL.

Service: Tuesday, August 19, 2025, 12:00 PM, Kassly-Meridith Funeral Home, Collinsville, IL.

Interment: Woodland Hills Cemetery, East Alton, IL 62234.

Kassly-Meridith Funeral Home, Collinsville, IL.