Robert "Bull" Farris, Sr.

Robert “Bull” Farris, Sr.

February 21, 1935 – April 24, 2025 

With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life well-lived, we announce the passing of Robert “Bull” Von Farris, Sr., who left this world peacefully on April 24, 2025, at the age of 90, surrounded by love. 

Born on February 21, 1935, in the small town of Sharps Chapel, Tennessee, Bull was the beloved son of the late James and Mamie (Turner) Farris. From humble beginnings, he grew into a man whose presence filled every room—strong-willed, sharp-witted, and endlessly entertaining.

Bull first found love with Shelcie Croley, with whom he shared two children. They remained life long friends. Life later brought him a second, beautiful chapter of love with Sherry Goss. They married on March 26, 1982, in Monroe, where they built a home full of laughter, warmth, and resilience. Their love carried them through decades of togetherness until her passing, a loss he carried tenderly in his heart. 

A hardworking man, Bull dedicated 35 years to Tecumseh Products as a Line Production Specialist, retiring in 1993. But retirement never slowed him down. He had a curious soul and a collector’s heart—always on the hunt for hidden treasures, be it coins, Hot Wheels, or knives. His collections were more than hobbies—they were stories, each piece with a memory attached. 

He had a knack for bringing people together—around a pool table, a game of Euchre, or around the dinner table with his home-cooked meals that everyone craved. He loved music, could speak like a preacher, and yet, he was the first to laugh and say, “but I ain’t no preacher.” His humor was quick, his sarcasm sharp, but beneath that tough exterior was a man with an enormous heart. Bull had a way of making people feel loved. He gave everyone in the family a nickname, as if to say, “You’re mine. You’re special.” He lit up around his grandchildren and great-grandchildren—his pride in them was uncontainable.

He leaves behind a family who will forever carry his memory in their hearts: his children Robin “Princess” (Sean) Schmidt, Tara Farris, Robin Adams, and Cindy (William) Hunter; his grandchildren Megan Farris, Melanie Menard, Connor Schmidt, Taylor Farris, Javian Williams, Madyson Farris, Mikal Farris, Keegan Farris, Lily Taylor, Ashley (John) Byerly, Steven Jackson, Bradley Coats, Jacob Coats, and Zach Adams; and 13 great-grandchildren who will grow up hearing stories of the man who loved them fiercely. He is also survived by his brother, Mitchell (Charlotte) Farris.

Bull was welcomed into the next life by his beloved wife Sherry, his sons Robert “Bob” Farris Jr. and Adam Taylor, daughter Shelly Farris, step father Delbert Short and brothers Donald and Johnny Farris. 

The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to their many close friends who supported them and stood by their family with kindness and compassion over the years. Your love made all the difference. 

In a final act of selflessness, Bull donated his body to the University of Michigan Medical School—a testament to his lifelong belief that if he could help even one person, it would all be worth it. 

Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Rupp Funeral Home. Online condolences and messages of comfort may be shared with the family there.

Bull’s legacy is one of laughter, strength, and deep love. He will be missed more than words can say—but never forgotten.