Sheila Farmer Sansom

In Loving Memory Our beloved mother was born on February 1, 1937, in London and grew up in Northolt as one of nine children. She was the daughter of Mary Ann Jane and Charles Farmer. Growing up in England shaped her in quiet, lasting ways, and she carried those traditions with her throughout her life. To her, a cuppa tea was more than a drink — it was her love language, her way of making everything feel right again. Her early childhood unfolded during World War II, and like many young Londoners, she was sent to live with host families in the countryside when the city was under attack. She was only three or four years old at the time. Although she lived through such a defining moment in history, she rarely spoke about those years. She attended an advanced high school, earning scholarships that made her education possible. While she did not pursue college, her sharp mind, determination, and natural talent for numbers shaped her life in meaningful and lasting ways. As a young woman, she eventually made her way to the United States by way of marriage, building a life and raising three children—two sons and one daughter. She made her home in Luverne, Alabama, where she worked as the Director of Purchasing at Crenshaw County Hospital. Later, she moved to Huntsville, Alabama, managing an optometry practice and eventually helping run her sons’ pharmacy. One of the milestones she cherished most was becoming a United States citizen while her children were in high school. Her faith was something she kept close, a quiet source of strength throughout her life. She believed in God and trusted in His word, and the values she lived by—kindness, honesty, and generosity—reflected that quiet devotion. Mom found joy in simple, meaningful moments. She preferred one‑on‑one conversations to large gatherings, and she shared a special bond with the dogs and cats she adored. She was also an exceptional gardener. Her gardens were her sanctuary—places where she found peace, beauty, and purpose. She also loved books, especially suspenseful novels. Reading was another quiet refuge for her—a place where she could unwind, explore new worlds, and enjoy the simple pleasure of a well‑told story. Above all, she was devoted to her children. She never missed a game, a practice, or a performance. Even though she hadn’t grown up with American sports, she encouraged her children wholeheartedly and took joy in cheering them on. Her presence was steady, supportive, and full of love — a gift her children carry with them to this day. She leaves behind a family who adored her: her children — Rick Sansom, Ron Sansom (Victoria), and Sheryl Hayes (Larry) — along with her grandchildren, Hannah Hayes and Larry Hayes III, all of whom were touched by her quiet strength and unwavering love. She will be remembered as a fiercely independent and exceptionally intelligent woman who held herself—and those she loved—to high standards. She was beautiful inside and out, and her strength, grace, and quiet presence shaped every part of our lives. Our family wishes to express our gratitude to the Belmont Village team, along with Dr. Jeannie May and her senior care staff for the love and kindness shown to our mom. We are also deeply thankful for the Gentiva Hospice staff, whose compassion and support touched our lives in meaningful ways. Our friends and loved ones who prayed for us and supported us throughout this journey have been a source of comfort and strength as well. We are profoundly grateful. A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, September 11, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. in the First Presbyterian Church Columbarium, 4815 Franklin Pike, Nashville, TN. For those wishing to honor her, the family asks that donations be made to First Presbyterian Church Nashville in lieu of flowers. “At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them.”

Sheila Farmer Sansom

February 1, 1937 - August 19, 2026