Tarsicius Farley, OFM

1906 – 1975

Fr. Tarsicius Farley, OFM, was born in Troy, N.Y., on May 16, 1906. He graduated from St. Joseph’s Seraphic Seminary in Callicoon, N.Y., and entered the Province’s novitiate in Paterson, N.J., in 1926.

In 1927, he professed temporary vows and made his profession of solemn vows in 1930. Fr. Tarsicius was ordained a priest in 1933 in Washington, D.C.

Fr. Tarsicius was assigned to the mission band because of his oratorical abilities, and he preached the Word of God for 20 years. He was a “little man with a big voice,” and used his talents to deepen the faith of his listeners during parish missions. He spoke with a quiet softness that accorded well with his gentle and generous nature. He loved his ministry.

In 1953, ill health forced Fr. Tarsicius to cease full-time preaching, and he was assigned to Holy Cross Friary in Bronx, N.Y., and St. Bonaventure in Paterson where he helped out part time. He accepted the pains of his illness with a quiet resignation and disliked being a burden to others.

In 1973, Fr. Tarsicius retired to St. Anthony Friary in St. Petersburg, Fla. Those in need always found in him a patient and sympathetic listener.

He died Aug. 16. 1975, in Margate, N.J. Fr. Tarsicius was 69 years old, a professed friar for 48 years and a priest for 42 years.