Caron Atkins Farris

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Caron Atkins Farris, who left this world peacefully to join the embrace of Jesus on September 4, 2026. Born on December 27, 1942, in Obion County, Tennessee. Caron’s life was marked by unwavering faith, boundless love, and dedication to her family and community. Caron was the daughter of Harvey and Bessie Lenora Atkins, and she grew up in a loving household alongside her siblings Wells, Wallace, Ralph, and Marie, all of whom have predeceased her. She was reunited in heaven with her beloved husband, Clayton Hugh Farris, whom she married on August 29, 1964. Together, they built a life filled with love and laughter, sharing 58 wonderful years together until his passing in 2022. Education played a pivotal role in Caron’s life. After graduating from high school in Obion County, she moved to Memphis to further her studies at Memphis State University, supported by her brother Ralph and his family. Caron pursued a career in education, dedicating more than 40 years to teaching first- and second-grade students in Memphis, Dyersburg, TN, and later Southaven, MS, where she relocated to be closer to her children. A devoted mother and grandmother, Caron’s life was truly enriched by her family. She leaves behind her daughter, Paige Bishop, and her son, Clay Farris, who were among the greatest blessings of her life. Her three grandsons—Aidan, Chase, and Barrett—were her pride and joy. She cherished every moment spent with them and embraced the role of grandmother with an open heart. Caron had a lifelong love for animals. From the farm animals, cats, and dogs she cherished growing up to the beloved pets who shared her life in her final years, she showed special tenderness and compassion for every animal she encountered. Her pets were more than companions—they were family, and her love for them remained constant throughout her life. Caron was not only a nurturing presence within her family but also a pillar of her community. She was active in her children’s activities and was an avid community volunteer. She was an active member of First Baptist Church in Dyersburg, TN, before joining DeSoto Hills Baptist Church in Southaven, MS, where she continued her service until she could no longer do so. Caron’s teacher personality never stayed in the classroom—it followed her into every family gathering and holiday. She had a natural way of taking charge and making sure everything was taken care of, often managing the details of family gatherings effortlessly while ensuring everyone else was comfortable, cared for, and where they needed to be. She was rarely seen sitting down, as she was always busy caring for others and making sure everything was taken care of. Caring for others was simply part of who she was. Her kindness and generosity touched everyone she met, and she was known for her positive outlook and reassuring spirit. Those who knew her will remember how she could often be heard comforting those around her with her familiar words: “And that’s OK.” Somehow, no matter what was happening, Caron had a way of reminding everyone that things would be all right. A service to celebrate Caron’s life will be held on October 3, 2026, at DeSoto Hills Baptist Church, located at 4680 Getwell Road, Southaven, Mississippi 38672. Visitation will be at 11:00 a.m., and the service will begin at noon. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the DeSoto Hills Baptist Church building fund in honor of Caron’s memory and her dedication to her church community. As we remember Caron, we cherish the invaluable lessons she imparted through her life: to love unconditionally, serve selflessly, and live each day with gratitude and grace. Her spirit will continue to guide her loved ones, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, kindness, and compassion that will never be forgotten.