Michael Elton Farmer

Michael Elton Farmer, age 71, of Savannah entered the presence of his Lord on Thursday, December 19, 2024.

Rev. Farmer was born on June 22, 1953, in Waycross, Georgia, to the late J.C. Farmer and the late Reba Eloise Hinson Farmer. He was a retired minister in the Church of the Nazarene. 

After graduating from Ware County High School in 1971, Michael went to work at the railroad in Waycross, followed by 40 years of full-time Christian ministry. Through the testimony of his Uncle Ronnie Hinson and his first wife, Joann, he gave his heart and life to Jesus Christ at Waycross Church of the Nazarene on April 1, 1973. He pursued his ordination certificate through the Nazarene Bible College Extension & Directed Studies, receiving his ordination in 1988. From 1975 to 1989, he and Joann served in full-time ministry, pastoring churches in Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia. In February 1989, Joann and his daughter, Marianne D. Farmer, were involved in a fatal accident in Barnesville, Georgia. 

He met Mandy Dawson through a mutual friend, Charlotte Sanders, later that year and they were married December 31, 1989. They served churches in Georgia, Wisconsin, and again in Georgia. Pastor Farmer was a beloved pastor wherever he served. His greatest desire was to live the Gospel before all men and encourage the believers. His ministries often included the restoration of church buildings, which led to spiritual renewal as well. During his service, he received many awards, such as the Church of the Year. He also served as the Wisconsin District Advisory Board Secretary, Wisconsin interim District Superintendent, and Georgia District credentials and camp boards at different times. After 40 years of ministry, Michael and Mandy retired to Savannah, Georgia. 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, JoAnn Marie Stewart and daughter, Marianne Denise Farmer. Also, preceded in death by brother-in-law, Curtis Griffin (Paula). 

Those who continue to cherish his memory include his wife of 35 years Amanda L. Farmer (Mandy), sister, Paula Griffin, and brother, Joseph Farmer; sons, Daniel W. Farmer (Kristina), Brian C. Farmer, Brett D. Farmer, a daughter, Mikaela S. Grimes (Ethan), and one grandson, Austin. Several nieces and nephews also survive him. 

Pastor Michael Farmer’s life exemplified one who would declare, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7) and he has laid all his trophies down at the feet of his Savior. 

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Harvest Church of the Nazarene, 5995 Waters Ave. Savannah, GA 31406 

Visitation will be on Saturday, January 11, 2025, from 12:00 noon until 2:00 p.m. at the church. 

In place of flowers, consider a donation to the family through either of their churches; Pastor & Mandy’s church (Bloomingdale - 1116 E US Highway 80, Bloomingdale, GA, 31302) or Harvest Church (5995 Waters Ave. Savannah, GA 31406) where he served in the early 1990’s. Alternatively, donations can be made in memory of Michael E. Farmer to the J.C. Lewis Cancer and Research Pavilion. www.sjchs.org/foundations/donate/make-a-gift-now.