George Francis Farnan passed away peacefully on April 2, 2026, in Jacksonville. He was born on November 9, 1936, in The Bronx. He was the thirteenth of sixteen children in a large Irish Catholic family shaped by hardship, resilience, and determination.

George’s childhood was marked by profound loss. After the death of his mother when he was only six years old, he and his three younger brothers were placed in a Catholic orphanage. At thirteen, he went to live with an older sister, beginning a life defined by independence and perseverance. At sixteen, he moved across the country to California to live with his oldest brother and the three younger brothers from the orphanage. That same year, he dropped out of high school and enlisted in the Navy after lying about his age, beginning a military career that would span nearly four decades.

While stationed in Washington, George met Wanda Southern. They married in 1955, when George was just eighteen years old, and built a family grounded in loyalty, sacrifice, and commitment despite the demands of military life. Together, they raised their son Michael from Wanda’s previous marriage and welcomed three daughters: Patricia, Kathleen, and Katrina.

Over 37 years of service in the United States Navy, George served his country around the world. His assignments took him to Hawaii, Washington, Florida, Rhode Island, Maryland, Virginia, Germany, and Italy. He served during both the Vietnam War and the Gulf War. During the Vietnam War, he was awarded the Bronze Star for Valor. He later served as the Commanding Officer of the USS Koelsch and retired at the rank of Captain. Even after retirement, George continued working in maritime operations through contract work with Maersk shipping company.

Following the death of Wanda after 52 years of marriage in 2008, George met Connie Brantley at the VFW in Jacksonville Beach. George and Connie married at the Bellagio on February 14, 2010. They enjoyed 16 years of travel, cruises, and relaxing at the Moose Lodge with various friends and veterans, some fondly nicknamed the “Bend in the Bar Gang.”

George is survived by his wife, Connie; his daughters, Patricia (Karolyn), Kathleen, and Katrina (Scott); six grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; his beloved little brother, Michael (the baby of the Farnan family and last surviving sibling); Michael’s wife, Carole; and their three children, all of whom were George’s godchildren.

A Funeral Liturgy outside Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, May 16, 2026 in Quinn Shalz Funeral Home, located at 3600 3rd Street South, Jacksonville Beach, FL. A reception will follow.