Ernest Basil Farley

It is with sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved father, Ernest Basil Farley. He peacefully left this world on July 22, 2026 at the age of 94. While our hearts are heavy with grief, we find solace in honoring a life well-lived, filled with love, laughter and cherished memories.

Ernie is survived by Gail Cole, his loving and caring partner of 4 years; his children, Sherry Whetstone (Dan) of Rescue, CA; Douglas Farley (Rosa) of Brownsville, TX, and James Farley (Mary) of Winston, OR, and stepchildren Terry Thomas (Steve) Roseburg, OR, and Susan Hand (John) of Oneonta, AL; his 13 grandchildren; and his 13 great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by Rosemary Farley, his devoted first wife of 57 years and Catherine Farley, his loving second wife of one year four months. He is also preceded in death by his daughter Christine Payne, son-in-law Tom Payne; and stepchildren, Glynda Tucker and Bob Knapp; and his grandsons Shaun Foster and Channing Whetstone. Ernie also leaves behind many other relatives and life-long friends.

Ernest Farley was born in Asher OK to the late Robert Farley and Laura Holt. When he was 6, his family moved to Tenmile, Oregon.

Ernie proudly joined the U.S. Air Force in 1949 and was stationed in the Korean Peninsula. After he returned from Korea, he married his sweetheart, Rosemary in 1952. During his years of service, he and his family were stationed at Air Force bases in Arizona, Washington, California, Nebraska, Japan, and Arkansas.

For his dedicated years of service and bravery, Ernie received the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Republic of Korea War Service Medal, and the U.S. Military Air Medal along with numerous other awards. After 23 years of distinguished service and achieving the rank of a Senior Master Sergeant, Ernie retired from the United States Air Force and moved to Roseburg, Oregon.

Ernie found joy in the simple pleasures of life. Ernie’s favorite pastime was fishing and telling fishing stories. Ernie also loved spending time cheering on the Oregon Ducks, watching sports games on TV, traveling across country in his motor home and spending time visiting family and friends. The highlight of Ernie’s year always was the family vacations.

Ernie’s greatest joy was spending time with his family. He was a family man through and through – a son, brother, father, grandpa, and friend – whose presence brought comfort and laughter to those around him.

Ernie’s legacy lives in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Service details will be posted early spring 2027.