Zilla Mae Farmer

In the late hours of August 15 th , 2026, God called one of his loving children home. Zilla Mae Stevenson-Farmer answered the Master’s call to return home. She was born November 13 th , 1932, in Tabor City, North Carolina; the daughter of the late Reverend Herman John Stevenson and the late Mary Smith-Stevenson, the first of seventeen children. She was educated in the Columbus County School System, and graduated from Tabor City High school in Tabor City, NC. She also attended Central Piedmont Community College. Sister Farmer accepted Christ at a young age and joined Iron Hill Missionary Baptist Church in Iron Hill, North Carolina. After marriage, she joined New Light A.M.E Church in Dothan, North Carolina. Later she became affiliated with New Bethel A.M.E Church and later took membership at Pleasant Grove A.M.E Zion Church where she served faithfully. While at Pleasant Grove, she served as a Deaconess, a Stewardess, Member of the Women’s Home and Oversees Missionary Society, Member of the Senior Choir, Member of the Hospitality Committee and Member of the Usher Board. Sister Farmer was a spiritual leader in the church. She led a life guided by God’s Word. Those who knew her would realize after a few minutes in her presence, that she was a woman of God. Those with questions sought her out for his advice. She retired from Charlotte-Mecklenburg County School System as a Cafeteria Training Manager in 1995 after more than 20 years of service. Known for her warmth, kindness and generosity, she was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed by all her friends, colleagues and students. Additionally, she was a long-time member of the Eastern Stars in North Carolina. On June 15 th , 1954, Sister Farmer married the love of her life, the late Anthony Fleming Farmer, a match made in heaven. Out of this marriage were four children, Rev. Marcus Erwin (Ava), Rickey Allen (deceased), Marris Bernard (Delphine, both deceased) and Vickey Michele (Derrick). She had seven grandchildren, Anthony Veron (Christina), Rev. Erica Dejia (Victor), Joathan Allen (Valerie), Brandon Anthonye, Aaliyah Amber, Makayla Alexandria and Dedrick Avery. Additionally, she had three great-grandsons, Daniel, Andrew and Jamieson. She was preceded in death by one brother and one sister. In addition, she leaves to mourn eight brothers and six sisters; one God child, Janice Smith of Charlotte, North Carolina; two sisters-in-laws and a host of nephews, nieces and other relatives and friends. She will be missed by all.

Zilla Mae Farmer

November 13, 1932 - August 15, 2026