Joe Mac Farmer

Joe Mac Farmer, 88, of Springfield, Tennessee, passed away on September 30, 2025 in his hometown. He was born on June 1, 1937 in Springfield to Sam and Elizabeth Farmer.

A 1955 graduate of Springfield High School, Joe went on to attend Tennessee Tech for two years before entering the United States Army, where he trained and qualified as a helicopter mechanic. After completing his active duty service, he transitioned to the National Guard. In 1963, Joe was selected to attend U.S Army helicopter flight school, where he graduated first in his class and was offered his choice of assignments. He chose to serve as an instructor pilot at Ft. Walters Army Airfield in Mineral Wells, Texas, from 1964 to 1966.

In the fall of 1966, Joe began a distinguished 33 year airline career when he was hired by Braniff International Airways as a flight engineer. He rose steadily through the ranks, becoming Captain in 1976. Joe later joined Piedmont Airlines, which merged with USAir in 1986, where he continued his service as Captain. Over the course of his career, he flew to four continents and more than 20 countries in a variety of aircraft, earning the respect of colleagues and passengers alike.

In November 1959, Joe marries the love of his life, Dora “Dody” Cherry of Adams, Tennessee. Together they shared 62 years of marriage until her passing in 2021. They raised two sons, John (1961-2024) and Byron (b. 1967).

Beyond his career and family, Joe devoted much of his time to the Boy Scouts of American, where he had earned the rank of Eagle Scout as a young man in Troop 144 in Springfield. As an adult, he served in many leadership roles, including assistant scoutmaster of Troop 144, board member for Middle Tennessee Council, and committee chairman of the Warioto District.

Outside of aviation and Scouting, Joe enjoyed boating and traveling with his devoted wife, Dody. Together they created many cherished memories around the world. He was a faithful member of First United Methodist Church of Springfield, Tennessee.

Joe was preceded in death by his wife, Dody, and his eldest son, John. He is survived by his son, Byron, and daughter in law, Sarah; and by his two granddaughters, Devon (daughter of John) and EllaGrace (daughter of Byron and Sarah). He is also survived by his older brother, Jerry Farmer and extended family of in laws, nieces, and nephews.

Joe will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, patriot, mentor, and friend whose steady presence and love for family, faith, and community touched many lives.