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Shawn Michael Farrah, a beacon of strength and inspiration, left this world on September 26, 2024, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on October 23, 1972, in Marietta, Ohio, Shawn lived a life characterized by passion, resilience, and the power of a positive attitude.
Shawn's life was a testament to the power of love and family. He shared an unbreakable bond with his wife Deana, a partnership that was a source of strength and inspiration to all who knew them. Together, they raised their children with the same values of love, determination, and kindness that Shawn embodied. Jhordan Farrah, Justin and his wife Madilyn Hartley, and Paige Hartley will carry on his legacy with the grace and fortitude he instilled in them. His parents, Don and Dianne Farrah, and his sister Jami, along with her family, Sam, Audrey, Rylan, and Elliana Robinson, will forever cherish the memories of a man whose spirit was as infectious as his smile.
Shawn's beloved dog, Miles, was more than a pet; he was a companion who shared in the joys and challenges of life. Their bond was a testament to Shawn's capacity for love and the simple pleasures that make life worth living.
Before Shawn's passing, he was preceded in death by his loving grandparents Harold and Jean Thompson and Mike and Bonnie Farrah, his Aunt Susan Guinn, and his Uncle Michael Farrah, who were undoubtedly there to welcome him with open arms.
In his final days, Shawn was in the compassionate care of Cawley Hospice, where he and his loved ones received the gift of unwavering support and comfort. A special note of gratitude is extended to Caliegh, whose presence was a source of strength for the family. Her dedication and respect illuminated the path during Shawn's transition, providing peace and dignity to his journey's end.
Shawn's academic journey took him to the halls of West Virginia University, where he formed lifelong friendships. Professionally, he went on to serve as a Legal Administrative Analyst at the Bureau of the Fiscal Service for 19 years, a role in which he not only excelled but also made lasting contributions through his dedication and expertise.
He was a man who lived with an unwavering commitment to his interests and the people he loved. A devoted fan of WVU Football and the Pittsburgh Steelers, Shawn's enthusiasm for his teams was matched only by his passion for running. His strides were not just a physical pursuit but a metaphor for his approach to life: always moving forward, one step at a time, with determination and resilience. He often found solace and strength on the open roads and trails. He was a proud member of the River City Runners and Walkers Club since 2011, where he not only pursued his own goals but also supported and encouraged others in their athletic endeavors.
Together, Shawn and Deana founded the Marietta Y Youth Running Club in 2016, a place where he could share his passion for running and mentor young athletes. Through his guidance, he inspired countless children to push beyond their perceived limits, to run not only with their legs but with their hearts, and to discover the strength that lies within.
Perhaps Shawn's most profound impact came from his tireless advocacy and awareness efforts for colorectal cancer. After being diagnosed himself, he transformed his battle into a crusade for others, joining forces with the Colorectal Cancer Alliance and their Never Too Young Advisory Board as well as Man Up to Cancer. His voice became a beacon of hope and a call to action, reminding us that we can all be warriors in the face of adversity. His efforts were not just acts of service but a personal mission, fueled by his own journey and the desire to make a difference in the lives of others.
In the face of adversity, Shawn chose to live with hope and to inspire that hope in others. His legacy is not one of sorrow but of the courage and positivity with which he faced each day. He would want us to remember that life, like a football game, is not about the time on the clock but about how we play each quarter, how we show up for our team, and how we leave it all on the field.
As we say goodbye to Shawn, let us celebrate a life lived with purpose, love, and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. His life was a masterclass in courage and compassion. His story is one of triumph, not tragedy; a reminder that every day is an opportunity to touch lives, to fight for what matters, and to cherish the people and passions that bring us joy. Let us honor his memory by living as he did-with unwavering positivity, boundless energy, and a heart full of hope. Let us run the race that lies before us with the same determination and spirit that Shawn embodied, and in doing so, keep the essence of his remarkable life burning bright.
Shawn would want us to remind you that if you are 45 or older, get your colonoscopy. It could save your life! You can find more information at colorectalcancer.org.
There will be a private graveside service at Mt. Carmel Cemetery in Parkersburg.
A Celebration of Life will be Thursday at 7:00pm at the First Baptist Church in Williamstown with Pastor Tony Foreman officiating. The family will receive friends Thursday at the church from 4-7pm.
The family respectfully requests that no flowers be sent and to follow Shawn's wishes that memorial contributions in his name be sent to the Colorectal Alliance or Man Up to Cancer.
Online condolences may be sent to and links for donations to Colorectal Alliance and Man Up to Cancer can be found at www.leavittfuneralhome.com.