Francisca Jewell Farrar

Francisca Jewell Farrar, affectionately known as “Chita,” passed away peacefully on September 2, 2025, in Phoenix, Arizona. She was 71 years old. Born on October 4, 1953, in Nashville, Tennessee, Chita’s life was a radiant example of generosity, intelligence, and fierce independence. She touched countless lives as a nurse, educator, loving mother, devoted wife, and cherished friend.From the beginning, Chita was a force to be reckoned with. After graduating as a nurse in 1975, she continued her journey in education, earning her Master’s degree as a Mental Health Nurse Clinician in 1980, and then her PhD in Higher Education Administration in 1984, all from Vanderbilt University. Chita’s passion for learning was matched only by her dedication to sharing her knowledge with others. These accomplishments paved the way for an illustrious career that wove together hands-on nursing, academia, and administration. Her career blossomed at Austin Peay State University, where she rose to become Director of Nursing, inspiring generations of students with her expertise, warmth, and tireless work ethic. 

Chita married Benny Farrar in 1975, welcoming his children, David and Cindy, as her own, before the family grew with the birth of her daughters Ashley and Lisa. Despite her demanding professional life (often juggling two or three jobs at a time) family was always at the center of her universe. She took enormous pride in each of her children and grandchildren, nurturing their dreams, celebrating achievements, and offering her boundless support. 

Known for her sharp wit and infectious sense of humor, Chita often delighted in sharing little jokes and stories. Her laughter and spirit could light up any room. Her students, too, knew her as someone they could count on. She was famous for answering the phone at all hours to help with papers and projects, for remembering the details of their lives, and for never giving up on anyone.

Chita’s professional accomplishments were accompanied by her scholarly contributions; she published several research papers in prominent medical journals, a few co-authored with her daughter Ashley, who followed her mother’s footsteps into nursing. 

An adventurer at heart, Chita loved to travel, often combining her passion for work, teaching, and exploration. She created treasured memories with her daughters during family vacations, whether renting cabins in Gatlinburg, enjoying the magic of Dollywood and Disneyworld, or traveling abroad through Europe and Ireland. Her zest for life and adventure was matched by her love for good conversation, southern cooking, and the company of loved ones. 

She is survived by her daughters, Lisa (Tori), Ashley, and Cindy; her son, David (Roxanne); and her brother, Mike (Janelle), along with many nieces, nephews, grand children, and even great-grandchildren. Chita was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Benny, and her little brother, Herman.

A service honoring Chita’s life will be held at West Harpeth Funeral Home on September 21st, 2025, at 1:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Tennessee Nurses Foundation to continue her enduring legacy of compassion and excellence. 

Chita’s memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, former students, and all those whose lives she touched with her generosity, laughter, and unwavering support. She taught us all what it means to live with spirit and to care with the fullest heart.