Orval John "Sonny" Farmer, 83, crossed the pearly gates, peacefully and gracefully Friday, September 19, 2016 in Atlanta, GA at his loving daughter's home.

Sonny was born July 3, 1933and hailed from Pensacola, FL. OJ, as he was called, was a right halfback for the Catholic High School Crusaders, a military police officer in the 772nd Battalion Corps d'Elite in the Korean War, and well loved by all that knew him.

He was an all-around sportsman who enjoyed golf, fishing, and pool. Being a generous and selfless man, he dedicated his life to his family-often placing their needs above his own. One of his goals and successful attributes was his ability to help people find the laughter in any situation. He was a loving and caring man with a big heart who loved to dance with the ladies, and the ladies loved to dance with him. He could jitterbug with the best of them and now has the freedom to do so again.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Jean Colbert Farmer; his 3 children, Celeste (Thomas) Pfau of Atlanta, GA, Jeffrey (Dana) Farmer of Pensacola, FL and Crystal (Bill) Seay of Pensacola, FL; as well as a loving niece, Patty Chapman Holcombe; one grandchild; two great-grandchildren and six grand puppies.

Funeral Mass to be held 12:30pm Friday, September 23, 2016 at St. Paul Catholic Church, 3131 Hyde Park Rd., with Fr. Doug Halsema, celebrant. Burial will follow at Barrancas National Cemetery with military honors.

Pallbearers will be Donald Holcombe, John Holcombe, Zack Holcombe, Joseph Godwin, Kerby Carr and Michael Friedman.