Michael E. Farlow

Michael E. Farlow, 99, passed away on Monday, March 16, 2026, at Brookdale Senior Living Solutions.

He is survived by daughters Martha Lewis (Charlie) and Dale Flinchum (Randy) of Asheboro, son Jonathan Farlow (Kathy) of Archdale, 6 grandchildren, and 5 great-grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his wife of 72 years, Molly Ann Frye Farlow.

“Paw Paw” was born on Aug. 24, 1926, in Sophia, NC., one of six children born to Frank M. Farlow and Nora Stout Farlow. This was a place where the mailbox was two miles away, the bathroom was out back, and opossum was a staple. According to Paw Paw: “We were so poor that, when the great depression started, we didn’t even notice.”

Michael graduated from Randleman High School in 1944 and served in the Army as a cook, stationed in Germany and Belgium just after World War II. After returning home he met the love of his life, Molly Frye, while taking his mother shopping at Belk’s. They were married on July 31, 1948. After a stint in mill work, he began working for the United States Postal Service. He would serve the USPS for 30 years; 25 as a carrier and 5 as a supervisor. 

Upon retirement, he held jobs as a landscaper, a church custodian and a courier. 

He loved attending church at Marlboro Friends Meeting, where he was a lifelong member, and spending time with family. 

He was also fond of dispensing advice and opinions on a myriad of subjects. He was an excellent bowler and would pontificate on how hard you really need to throw the ball. He was a sports authority and would speak at length on the inability of the prevent defense to win games in the NFL and how Duke was better than Carolina and the Atlanta Braves were better than everybody. 

He was also knowledgeable on politics and social issues although his opinions tended to be somewhat slanted. 

The one thing he never tired of talking about was the value of hard work and his love of God and family. 

The visitation will be held at Marlboro Friends Meeting, on March 21, 2026, from 1-1:45 p.m. The funeral will follow from 2-3 p.m. Burial will be in the church cemetery. 

Memorials may be made to Marlboro Friends Meeting or Randolph Hospice House.

Pugh Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.