Deacon Jeffrey B. Fariss

     Jeffrey Bert Fariss passed peacefully surrounded by his loving family on February 14, 2026, after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease. Jeffrey was born in Houston, Texas on November 14, 1940, to Sam and Ruby Fariss.  Jeff is survived by his devoted wife, Claire Modenbach Fariss, his daughters, Lori (Ted) Pennison and Tracy (Brian) Passantino, his grandchildren, Alison (Brad) Dicarlo, Caroline (Matt) Guidry, Sean (Megan) Pennison, Connor Passantino and Ellie Pennison and five great grandchildren Dante, Felix, Maria, Peter and Grace.

     Jeffery graduated from Lake Charles High School where he played in the band. He went on to earn a degree in Physics from LSU. Jeff began his professional career with TRW/NASA in Houston, where he worked on rocket re-entry procedures in the event of in space emergencies. The significance of this work became profoundly clear during the Apollo 13 mission, where the data and research from his team contributed to the safe return of astronauts to earth. During these early years, Jeff embarked on what he often considered his most important life mission- marrying Claire Modenbach in 1965. Together they built a loving marriage that spanned over 60 years and they raised two daughters, Lori and Tracy.

     After his work with NASA, Jeff and his family returned to Louisiana where he was recruited by IBM. As an award winning Systems Engineer he implemented emerging computer systems at LSU Medical Center, Ochsner and other institutions. 

     Jeff decided to retire from IBM, so that he and Claire could begin a new chapter dedicated to serving the Catholic Church. Together they completed three years of coursework at Notre Dame Seminary after which Jeff was ordained a Permanent Deacon. Jeff and Claire helped Fr. David Dufour establish the Life Teen Ministry program at St. Clement of Rome Parish. Jeff also co-led the first men’s group of Lord, Teach Me to Pray with Fr. Marty Gleason. His service extended to the Charismatic Renewal, Archdiocesan prison ministry, Catholic Radio, and liturgical service at Our Lady of Perpetual Help and Divine Mercy parishes in Kenner. One of his greatest joys as a deacon was baptizing most of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His family has fond memories of enjoying Saints games, family vacations, and even the times they struggled through homework together.

      Funeral services will be held on Thursday, February 19 at Our Lady of the Lake Church, 312 Lafitte St. in Mandeville. Visitation will begin at 10:00 am followed by a Catholic mass at noon. Interment to follow at St. Joseph Abbey Cemetery.