Melda Jean Farris

Melda Jean Farris, 93, of Woonsocket, SD, passed away peacefully on December 24, 2024, in Woonsocket. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m., Thursday, January 2, 2025, at Spirit of Faith Church in Woonsocket. Burial will follow at Eventide Cemetery. Visitation will be 5-6:30 p.m., Wednesday also at the church, with a prayer service beginning at 6:30.

She was born on December 8, 1931 in Jones County, SD, to Morris and Louise (Millard) Esmay. Melda was a proud graduate of Murdo High School, class of 1949. She married Jack Farris on March 23, 1950.  They lived in Murdo and Artesian before settling in Woonsocket where they raised a family. 

While Melda dedicated herself to raising her children, she also found time to keep the books for the family business, Local Lumber and Supply, which she did for over 50 years, after she and Jack purchased it in 1969. 

Melda was an active member of the United Methodist Church in Woonsocket, now Spirit of Faith. She devoted countless hours to church activities including United Methodist Women, serving as church secretary, treasurer, and a member of the parish council. 

She will also be fondly remembered for her culinary talents, particularly her roast beef supper gravy, homemade bread, and caramel rolls. An avid reader, Melda read nearly every book in the Woonsocket library.  

Her greatest joy, however, was found in spending time with her 6 children, 15 grandchildren, and 24 great-grandchildren, of whom she was incredibly proud. Melda set great examples of hard work and practicality for her children, from canning and preserving the bounty of the family garden to making sure all the game and chickens for her table were cleaned and dressed in record time.  

Her quiet strength, hardworking spirit, and sharp mind will be greatly missed by her entire family, as she was often the final arbiter of various discussions on facts from the past and distant relatives. 

Melda is survived by her children: Jean Diedtrich of Custer, Douglas (Connie) of Woonsocket, Todd (Penny) of Woonsocket, Sharon Knapp of Madison, Jon (Michele) of Mitchell, and Chris (Mary) of Chantilly, VA, brother-in law Bill Farris, sister-in-law Janet Miller, along with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Jack; her brother Wayne (Margie) Esmay; son-in-law John Knapp, and grandson Jacob Diedtrich. 

Arrangements with Basham Funeral Service.