Mary Durelle Farmer

Mary Durelle Farmer, a revered educator and devoted member of her community, passed away Tuesday, April 15, 2025, in Waco. Born April 11, 1927, in Whitewright, Texas, she lived a life marked by love, learning, and unwavering faith.

Visitation for family and friends will be held Monday, April 21, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home, 6101 Bosque Blvd., Waco, Texas. The funeral service will take place at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at First Baptist Church, 500 Webster Ave., Waco, Texas. Interment to follow the funeral service at Waco Memorial Park, 6623 S IH-35 Service Rd., Waco, Texas.

Mary, affectionately known as Durelle, enriched the lives of those around her through her strong spirit, commitment to education, and, most of all, her faith.

Throughout her career, Durelle dedicated herself to teaching elementary education at Gurley Elementary, Forney Elementary, and Waco ISD. With passion and enthusiasm, she established the first library for Forney Elementary School, introducing generations of children to the world of literature and learning. Her commitment to education extended beyond the classroom as she earned a bachelor's degree and a master’s degree in education from Baylor University. Additionally, she attended George W. Truett Theological Seminary, driven by her desire to be an exceptional Sunday School teacher.

On December 21, 1951, Durelle united in marriage with Shuford Lee Farmer at the chapel of First Baptist Church Waco, embarking on a journey together for over 61 years before his passing in 2012. Their partnership flourished as they worked side by side in their architectural firm, where Durelle showcased her talents in interior design while capably handling any project that came their way. To Durelle, family was not merely a facet of her life—it was her passion, her hobby, and her greatest joy.

As a devoted Christian, she was an integral part of First Baptist Church Waco since the early 1950s, contributing over 70 years of service as a Sunday School teacher. Her deep knowledge of the scriptures and her involvement in Bible Study Fellowship for over 17 years showcased her devotion to both faith and community.

Durelle was preceded in death by her parents, Basil Henry Thomson Sr. and Aletha Lucile Noe Thomson; her husband, Shuford Lee Farmer; and her sisters and brothers-in-law, Sue and Tom McBrayer, and Jane and Aaron Thomas.

Durelle is survived by her loving daughter, Kathy Diehl, and her husband, Tom, of Waxahachie; her brother, Basil Henry Thomson Jr., and his wife, Margaret, of Waco; along with a multitude of nephews and nieces—including Lloyd Thomas and his wife, Amy, of Temple; Mark Thomas and his wife, Jan, of Plano; Glenn Thomas and his wife, Sheila, of China Spring; Pat Ekiss and his wife, Diane, of Tyler; Heather Minton of Benbrook; and Robert Thomson and his wife, Lauren, of Dripping Springs. Her extended family includes Susan Beggs and her husband, Dick, of Austin; Holly Hubbell and her husband, Kurt, of Dripping Springs; Patti Herbert of Waco; David Teverbaugh and his wife, Christine, of Houston; David Noe and his wife, Linda, of McKinney; Carl Noe and his wife, Laura, of Dallas; Judy Williams and her husband, Lon, of Dallas; and Susan Schemker of Sacramento, California. In addition, Durelle is remembered fondly by a host of great-nieces and nephews, great-great-nieces and nephews, and many cherished friends.

Her legacy will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Mary Durelle Farmer's presence made the world a brighter place through her teaching, her unwavering Christian faith, and her profound love for family and friends. Her strong and caring spirit will be missed, but her legacy will continue to inspire those she leaves behind.

Durelle’s family invites you to leave a message or a memory online in her “Memorial Guestbook” at www.WHBfamily.com.