Viola E. Gautier-Farrey's Obituary
GAUTIER-FARREY, VIOLA E., entered into heaven on Nov. 30, 2008. She was surrounded by the love of her large family until the end. Born April 5, 1909 in Belleville, Il., she was always known as "Spec" because of her diminutive size. She attended Lindenwood College in Mo., and was an early graduate of the Univ. of Miami. In 1933 she married John A. Gautier of a pioneer Miami family. She is survived by their three children, Petsy G. Mezey (Cliff), Joan Siegel-Byrd (Elliott) and William L. (Nana), ten grandchildren, 2 step- grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother Louis P. Wolfort and predeceased by two sisters. In 1997 Spec married Francis X. Farrey of another pioneer family and founder of Farreys' Hardware and Lighting and added 3 step-children to her large family, Bud, Frank and Lee. She is predeceased by Francis. In spite of her small size Spec entered into Johns' active outdoor lifestyle. They were active boaters, fishermen and hunters for many years. In 1940 Spec was asked by boat designer Paul Prigg to pilot his American Flyer in a boat race in Biscayne Bay. She was the only woman in the race and came in first. She was always meticulously dressed and had many of her clothes made before size "2"s became available. She maintained her style until the end. She was admired and loved by many and will be missed by us all. Visitation will be held at the funeral home on Wednesday, December 3, 2008 from 5pm-7pm. Services will on Thursday, December 4th at 2pm at Van Orsdel. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Catholic Hospice 14875 N.W. 77 Ave., Ste. 100, Miami Lakes, FL 33014 or Humane Society of Greater Miami, 16101 North Dixie Highway, North Miami Beach Fl., 33160. VAN ORSDEL - CORAL GABLES 4600 SW 8 St 305-446-4412 Family Owned Since 1924 www.vanorsdelfuneralchapels.com
What’s your fondest memory of Viola E.?
What’s a lesson you learned from Viola E.?
Share a story where Viola E.'s kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Viola E. you’ll never forget.
How did Viola E. make you smile?