Bobby Fred Farmer

IRMO—Bobby Fred Farmer, 84, died September 9, 2016. Fred “Grandbo” was born in Headland, Alabama the son the late Freddie Freeman and Rachel McCraney Farmer; moved to Belle Glade, Florida;then to Columbia, where he made his home.He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Joyce; by his children, Nancy Poston (Jim) and Mike (Carol Ann); grandchildren Jay Poston (Amanda),Rachel Poston, Dana Poston (Jase Bourgoyne),MoMo Farmer and Paige Mathias;great-grandchildren Graydon and Bowen Bourgoyne, and numerous nieces and nephews.He loved his family dearly, we were always his first priority. He was preceded in death by sisters, Rosalyn Farmer,Frankie Burke (Bill) and Judy Brumbaugh (Russ). Fred came to South Carolina via Ft. Jackson, where he met Joyce and never looked back. This Florida boy quickly discovered Lake Murray, and made that his family’s lifelong passion. He taught us all how to swim, ski and love the lake.Everyone who met Grandbo became a part of his family. His lake house was everyone’s lake house for so many gatherings. Fred was a charter member of St. James United Methodist Church for over 50 years.He loved the St. James family, and worked tirelessly to support its endeavors, especially the BBQ fundraisers! He later moved to Salem United Methodist Church, when he retired to Lake Murray. He worked in the automotive parts business for over 40 years, first with Standard Parts (NAPA), then as a founding partner of CarQuest of Columbia.He worked hard and was proud of his career.He was a lifelong, proud Gamecock, and knows the best is yet to come...and for the Braves, too! Grandbo will forever be remembered for his firm handshake, his genuine love for all his kids and grandkids – related or not, and his never ending loyalty to his family.While heartbroken, we know Grandbo is at peace and reunited with his heavenly family.We will all meet again. The family would like to extend sincere thanks to Compassionate Care Hospice , especially Misty and Ruth.We also thank Dr. Wells and the entire staff at Lexington Medical Center. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. James United Methodist Church, 3390 Pine Belt Road, Columbia, SC 29204 or Salem United Methodist Church, 1321 Salem Church Road, Irmo, SC 29063. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 13, 2016 at Salem United Methodist Church. Officiating will be Reverend Gary Phillips and Reverend Ned Crosby.The family will greet friends from 1:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m. prior to the service at the church and following the service at the residence.Temples-Halloran Funeral Home is handling arrangements.