Obituary of Charles Edward Farley

  Charles Edward Farley, age 87, of Hilton Head Island, SC., passed away on December 21, 2020.

   Born in Township County, MI., in 1933, Charles' musical talent and intellectual prowess were discovered at an early age. He attended college at Western Michigan University where he received his BMus and MA degrees. He continued his studies at Florida State University, where he received a PhD in music theory. His organ teachers included Ernst von Dohnanyi, Marilyn Mason, and Nadia Boulanger.

  Dr. Farley taught music at Knox College, Galesburg, IL., for 38 years. At the time of his retirement, he was Chair of the Music Department and the Robert W. Murphy Professor of Music. He performed organ recitals and concerts throughout the USA and Europe.

   In Galesburg, IL., he was also organist at First Presbyterian Church from 1979-1997. In his retirement on Hilton Head Island, he served as organist at First Presbyterian Church from 1997-2011, as well accompanist/assistant director of the Hilton Head Choral Society from 1997-2010.

   He was preceded in death by his parents Frank and Doris Farley, and his brother Robert Farley. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Beverly Farley, and long-time family friend Tim Reynolds. Charles was passionate about three things: his wife, his art of music-making, and his wanderlust for travel.

  No service is planned at this time due to COVID-19 restrictions. Friends may make memorial contributions to the Hilton Head Choral Society, P.O. Box 22235, Hilton Head Island, SC 29925.