Alfred Franklin Farris, age 91, left this world to be with the Lord on Thursday, November 2, 2023, with his wife, Wanda, by his side.
He was born on December 14, 1931, in Margerum, Alabama, to Cook and Hester Farris. He and his brother, Gene, were raised by their father after losing their mother at an early age. Alfred captured many stories of his childhood in his autobiography, “Looking Back,” that he wrote for his children and grandchildren.
Alfred’s greatest love was his family. In addition to his wife, Wanda, he is survived by his children: Michelle Hyde (Chuck), Suzanne Welshans (Al), David Farris and Scot Farris (Monica). He was “Pop” to his beloved grandchildren: Andrew Ledbetter (Kristina), Daniel Ledbetter, Michael Farris, Mia Farris, Emily Farris, Stephen Farris (Mana), Jake Farris, Luke Farris, Olivia Welshans, Matthew Welshans, Nicholas Welshans and Zan Zan Ledbetter. He also treasured his special relationship with John Cain and Lyndon Cain, his “bonus sons.”
Although Alfred and Wanda moved to Muscle Shoals in 2017, ties to his hometown of Cherokee remained strong. He retired from LaRoche Industries after a thirty-year career, and he was a member of Harris Chapel Baptist Church.
Alfred was well-known for being a friend to many and was always ready to have a lively discussion about politics and current events. Throughout his life as a father and grandfather, he created countless adventures – going on Sunday afternoon Jeep rides, exploring the woods on 4-wheelers and playing ruthless games of Uno and Scrabble.
The family expresses their deepest gratitude to his hospice team Laura, Julie and Lisha, and his caregivers, Patricia and Vanessa.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, November 4th, at Morrison Funeral Home in Cherokee from 3:00-5:00 p.m. The funeral service will be held on Sunday, November 5th, at Harris Chapel Baptist Church at 2:00 p.m. with Scot Farris and Donnie Cain officiating. Mr. Farris will lie in state one hour prior to the service. Interment will be in Harris Chapel Cemetery.
Grandsons will serve as pallbearers.
