Jan Farr

Jan Richard Farr, age 90 passed away peacefully at home on February 9, 2024. Born in Syracuse to parents Dr. Richard S. and Maria H. Farr. Jan graduated from Nottingham High School (1951) and Amherst College (1955).  He served in the United States Army (1955-57).  Following his service, Jan graduated from Syracuse University College of Law (1961). He married his beloved wife of 62 years, Susan (Vincent) on July 29^th, 1961.

Jan’s legal practice concentrated on municipal and governmental law.  He was the Director and Counsel to the New York State Joint Legislative Committee on Housing and Urban Development.  Thereafter he became the Director and Counsel of the New York Senate Select Committee on Moral Obligation Financing. He was one of the founding Attorneys establishing the Volunteer Lawyers Project of Onondaga County representing client’s pro-bono with legal issues.  He served 5 years as its volunteer director. Jan was a partner at (then) Hiscock and Barclay, where he worked for over 39 years. In 2005, he was admitted as an Attorney and Counsellor of the Supreme Court of the United States. He was also an honorary life member of the Onondaga County Bar Association in recognition of his over 50 years of service to the profession and the community. Jan was on several local boards primarily focused on the under-privileged, as well as those with developmental disabilities.

Jan was well known for his quick wit and sense of humor. He was the social director of Theta Delta Chi while at Amherst College and returned for Alumni weekends with his fraternity brothers annually. Jan was also a former member of the Gyro Club, The Century Club and The Orange Pack. He was a little league coach and spent his later years attending his grandchildren’s sporting events; always present with his distinctive “whistle”.  

 Jan and his loving wife of 62 years Sue were the perfect team.  Together they were active in local politics, loved traveling, music, and spending time with family and friends.    

 He is survived by his wife Susan and children: Miesje (Bill) Havens, Richard (Mary), Jonathan, and Sarah.  Cherished grandfather “Opa” to John (deceased), Maura, Maxwell, Charlie, and Will.  Brother of Sarah Vasey, and the late Nancy Fulmer.  

Services will be held  on  Saturday, February 24, 2024 at Holy Cross Church, 4112 E. Genesse St. Dewitt. Visitation will be held at the church from 9:30- 10:30, followed by a Funeral Service at 10:30 am. 

In Lieu of flowers, contribution can be made to L’Arche of Syracuse. 920 Spencer St. Syracuse NY 13204 https://larchesyracuse.org/donate/