William "Bill" C. Farris

William “Bill” Clay Farris, of Topeka, KS departed this world for eternal life with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on February 26, 2026 at Oakley Place, surrounded by family.

Bill was born on October 31, 1948 to Clyde C. and Anna “Louise” Farris in Bonham, TX. He is survived by his daughter Melanie Warner (son-in-law Mark Warner, grandkids Anna, Noah, and Sarah Kate) of Liberty, MO, daughter Heather Fay (son-in-law Troy Fay, grandkids Luke, Drew, and Cole) of Topeka, KS, daughter Angela Mackey (son-in-law Daniel Mackey, grandkids Emma, Lorelei, and Josiah) of Fort Smith, AR, son Christopher Farris of Washington, D.C., and siblings Clyde C. Farris jr (sister-in-law Phyllis Farris) of Kirkwood, MO and Elaine Dutton (brother-in-law Larry Dutton) of Lubbock, TX. He is also survived by a host of loving in-laws, cousins, nieces, and nephews. Bill is preceded in death by his wife of 54 years Sherry E. Farris, parents, Clyde C. and Anna L. Farris of Lubbock, TX and parents-in-law Woodrow W. and Pauline M. Powell of Lubbock, TX.

He attended Texas Tech University where, in his freshman year, he met Sherry E. Powell. They were married a year later and had 54 years together. Bill graduated from Washburn University with a degree in business. He enlisted in the Air Force and worked as a mechanic during his time in service. He also installed and taught others to maintain nav-aids that helped airplanes land. As a nav-aid instructor he traveled the world spending time in Singapore, Malaysia, and many other places. He also sold those huge satellite dishes that took up an entire back yard, real estate, and insurance. He rounded out his career working in networking and telecommunications both at the University of Kansas and for the state of Kansas.

Bill loved Jesus, his family, and helping others. A jack of all trades, he rebuilt engines, fixed plumbing, and even did electrical work. He enjoyed leading Bible studies and participating in Sunday School. He volunteered running the sound board at church and helped run video and audio for PBS local fund drives. He also loved music, participating in the marching band in high school and singing in several choirs. He even tried his hand at being a DJ in college. Bill’s wisdom and hijinx made sure life with him was never dull.

Bill often authored the famous Farris Christmas Letter for many, many years. He loved his wife, kids, and grandkids so well. He was their biggest fan and enjoyed attending grandkid activities as time and health allowed.

In lieu of flowers, please send memorial contributions to Topeka Bible Church to support the church Bill dedicated much of his time to support. Online contributions may be made here. https://www.discovertbc.com/give.

A celebration of Bill's life will be held at 10:00am on Monday, March 2, 2026 at Penwell Gabel Funeral Home, 1321 SW 10th Ave., Topeka, KS. His family will greet friends and relatives one hour prior to the service. 

To leave a message online for his family, please visit the guestbook below.